Bridging Systems for Transition-Age Youths With Co-Occurring Developmental and Psychiatric Conditions

In this column, a psychiatric resident reflects on caring for a 20-year-old patient with autism spectrum disorder, bipolar disorder, and catatonia whose complex needs revealed important gaps in the mental health care system that may lead to adverse outcomes for transition-age youths. Although improvised sensory supports and strong family collaboration facilitated treatment, systemic barriers (e.g., limited specialized services, restrictive eligibility criteria, and fragmented care networks) impeded comprehensive follow-up. This case highlights the need for wraparound services that bridge pediatric and adult systems and for integrated models to better support neurodivergent youths.