Introduction to OHTP

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INTRODUCTION TO THE OHIO HEALTH TRANSITIONS PROJECT

The purpose of this program is to improve access to treatment and support services for youth and young adults, ages 16-25, who have a serious emotional disturbance (SED) or a serious mental illness (SMI), hereafter referred to as serious mental disorders. It is expected that this program will improve emotional and behavioral health functioning so that this population of youth and young adults can maximize their potential to assume adult roles and responsibilities and lead full and productive lives.

The needs of Transitional-Aged Youth (TAY) with SMI/SED and/or I/DD in Cuyahoga and Lorain Counties mirror the nation per a lack of seamless transfer from the youth to adult system. TAY are over-represented in the foster care and justice systems, struggle to meet developmental milestones, and have higher rates of suicide attempts and deaths. Evidence suggests that approximately half of all lifetime cases of mental disorders begin by age 14. TAY are at risk for poor outcomes in young adulthood and beyond, yet approximately 50% to 70% of TAY with behavioral health needs do not receive services. Barriers include: 1) Siloed services (vocational, behavioral health, education, social security, etc.); 2) lack of TAY-specific services and failure to connect with adult services; 3) lack of awareness among system leadership, service providers, and educators.

Youth and young adults with SMI or SED between the ages of 16-25, including those with intellectual developmental disabilities, may not be working, in school, or in vocational and higher education programs. Some face the additional challenge of experiencing homelessness, or being in contact with the juvenile or criminal justice system, thereby increasing the likelihood of admissions to hospitals, mental health, and/or correctional facilities. Unfortunately, these same youth are among the least likely to seek help and may “fall through the cracks” and not receive the services and supports they need to become productive and healthy adults. It is imperative that appropriate outreach and engagement processes are developed and implemented to create access to effective behavioral health interventions and supports.

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