Co-producing a transition model of care for eating disorders: lessons learned from a multi-perspective qualitative study with young people, carers and mental health professionals
Maria Livanou, Anya Heneghan, Grace Hill, Alanta McKenzie, Marta Marlais, F. Ray Marshall, Zara Smalley, Eleni Xanthopoulou, Nora Kornai, J. M. Wilks, Ailsa McKay, Jun Liang Teh, Isabel Taylor, C. L. Burton, Julian Baudinet
Abstract
The transition from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) to Adult Mental Health Services (AMHS) presents significant challenges for young people with eating disorders and their families. These transitions often occur during critical periods of neurological, social-emotional development, and major life changes, all of which can influence broader psychosocial and treatment outcomes. This study represents the initial phase of a broader co-production project aimed at developing a new intervention model, Transition for Eating Disorder Youth intervention (TEDYi), and explored the lived experiences of young people, carers, and mental health professionals during transitions. Fifteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with young people (n = 6) and carers (n = 9), alongside two focus groups involving 12 mental health professionals. These took place across six NHS sites in England, including two adult and four adolescent specialist eating disorder services. The data were analysed with Reflexive Thematic Analysis (RTA) which revealed four key themes: navigating the complexity of transitions, we need carers involved, the shadow of separation, and suggestions for the TEDYi intervention related to coping strategies and self-management. These findings have significant clinical implications for transitional care, emphasising the need for a more standardised and supportive approach to the transition from CAMHS to AMHS. The forthcoming intervention model seeks to address these challenges, with this study helping to prioritise key areas identified by TEDYi, which has been endorsed as a preparatory resource for enhancing clinical practice. This study looked at the experiences of young people, their carers, and professionals when transitioning from child and adolescent eating disorder services to adult care. The goal was to help develop a new support model, the Transition for Eating Disorder Youth intervention (TEDYi). The findings showed that better preparation is needed for these transitions, with more involvement of carers and attention to the emotional challenges young people face. Participants suggested including self-management skills, coping strategies, harm reduction, and education in transition plans. They also recommended involving peers with lived experience to build trust and provide helpful guidance. These insights will help shape better support during this important transition.