When your time with us is coming to an end, together we’ll talk about the different options depending on what’s right for you. The word that is used to describe this stage is discharge.

This can be a worrying time, especially if you’re not sure about what this change means or what life might look like without our help. We’ll make sure that you have access to any help or resources that you need when you’re discharged. And remember, there are lots of things on these web pages for you to look at too.

When your work with CAMHS is complete

When the time is right to start thinking about discharge, we’ll discuss the reasons for this with you, and think through options of what might come next. Your discharge plan will be personalised for you to make sure it meets your needs moving forward. There are several things we’ll consider.

You might:

  • no longer need support, and you’ll be discharged from CAMHS back to the professional who referred you
  • be advised to continue working through things we’ve suggested, e.g. an online programme or self-help resources
  • be referred onto another service who can continue to help you – this transition will be done with your involvement to make sure you feel included

Other reasons for moving on

You’re moving out of Fife

If you move out of Fife during your time with us, your care might need to be transferred to the CAMHS team in the area you move to. We’ll write to the CAMHS team and ask for them to take over your care. Your records will be held here unless requested by the other CAMHS team.

You’re turning 18

You may not know this, but CAMHS is for children and young people up to 18 years of age. Once you turn 18, there are a few options of what might come next. We’ll discuss these with you to work out what’s going to be best for you, including the above options. We’ll also consider if you need to be referred onto Adult Mental Health Services.

If this is the case, there is NHS Fife guidance to follow to ensure you have a smooth transition from CAMHS to Adult Mental Health Services. We’ll talk you through the process and explain what is going to happen and when.

The process usually starts around 6 months before you turn 18. As part of this, you’ll be kept informed at all points and, if appropriate, have the opportunity to meet with Adult Mental Health Services. Once the process is complete, you’ll be discharged from CAMHS and your care will continue in Adult Mental Health Services.

We wish you well as you move on from CAMHS.