Challenges Faced by TAY

Listed below are some of the challenges facing Transition Age Youth (TAY) in California.

Stigma:

Stigma and Discrimination is still one of the primary reasons TAY do not seek help for mental health challenges.

Lack of Representation:

Transition Age Youth are underrepresented, they do not have a voice in local or state governments and all too often the needs of TAY are ignored.

Absence of Trust:

Youth do not trust local and state elected officials, police officers, counselors, and mental health providers.

Lack of TAY Specific Services:

Transition Age Youth do not have their own mental health system of care. They fall in the children’s or adult systems of care and these structures are inadequate in addressing the needs of TAY.

Disempowerment:

Youth feeling less than an equal partner in meetings, committees, and boards. TAY are led to believe that their voice does not matter – but it does!

Misunderstanding of TAY Culture:

People do not understand the culture of today’s youth which furthers stigma and discrimination.

Access to services already in existence:

Even when a youth is able to overcome stigma, many youth still do not know where to go, or who to turn to when they need help.

Housing:

California has one of the highest rates in the country of homeless youth. In order for youth to find success, they need a stable place to live!

Education:

Youth need opportunities to become successful and a path to an education can open the door to success.