Review of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Recovery Literature: Concordance and Contention

This review explores and thematically analyzes recently published literature on personal mental health recovery for children and adolescents aiming to determine whether personal recovery-oriented mental health practice is wholly or partially applicable for children and adolescents with mental health issues. The study utilized a scoping review methodology to identify and explore the extent of English language peer reviewed literature specifically relating to mental health recovery for young people up to 18 years of age. Themes that emerged from these data were mapped to the five elements of the CHIME framework. Eight papers were identified that met the inclusion criteria illustrating a dearth of literature in the area of child and/or adolescent mental health recovery. Themes from the review included; developmental inclusion, recovery goals, hope and empowerment, locus of control, and connections with parents and family and peers, and connections with services and wider community. Recovery components were consistent with the CHIME framework and generally thought applicable for adolescents but require consideration of child development needs and familial influences to be relevant for younger children. Personal recovery-oriented practice is considered suitable for adolescents with modifications for children. Future research and practice are suggested to increase understanding in this area.