Issue: Individuals 16-25 years old with psychiatric disabilities appear to be falling through cracks in the mental health system as they attempt to transition from systems of care for children into the community as adults. As a result, many do not want to engage in mental health or other services intended to help them. As a result, these individuals end up involved with the criminal justice system, homeless, or in other undesirable situations.

Action: NYS must have a strength-based, individual-centered assessment that identifies choices regarding education and employment. For those young adults, transition planning must begin at an early age, far before high school. There must be greater emphasis on post-school outcomes aimed at providing the greatest opportunity for productivity and independence. Case management programs can be very helpful in making a successful transition to college, vocational training or employment. Lastly, youth must be at the forefront in developing one-stop programs/drop-in centers and other programs dedicated to providing adolescents and young adults with an opportunity to work with their peers.