Formal and informal mental health support in young adults with recurrently depressed parents.

ABSTRACT:

Background

A family history of mental illness, particularly parental depression, is a risk factor for mental health difficulties in young people, with this heightened risk extending into adulthood. Evidence suggests low rates of formal mental health support in children/adolescents with depressed parents, but it is unknown whether this pattern persists into adulthood and applies to informal support.

Aims

We examined the prevalence of formal and informal mental health support accessed by young adults with recurrently depressed parents. We identified factors associated with access to different support, and report satisfaction with support.

Method

The sample included 144 young adults (mean age 23 years, range 18-28 years) who completed psychiatric assessments and reported

SUBMITTER: Bevan-Jones R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12451549 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature