Background: With the growing prevalence of mental illness in young people, healthcare professionals require an understanding of the social and psychological implications of medication use in this population.
Aim: To characterize the qualitative literature regarding the perceptions and experiences of young people taking medication for mental illness.
Methods: A narrative review of qualitative studies involving young people (13-24 years) taking any medication as treatment for a mental illness. The Medication Experience Model guided analysis of quotes related to medication use.
Results: Of the 27 included studies, the majority involved participants with depression and utilized interviews. Young people reported a wide range of mental health medication experiences, both negative and positive, which could influence medication acceptance. Lack of autonomy and the influence of family members were challenges faced by this population.
Conclusions: Young people reported that medications had affected them in various ways across multiple dimensions. Lack of involvement in decision-making and a loss of autonomy were of particular relevance to young people, issues which should also be of interest to healthcare professionals.
Keywords: Adolescent; medication; mental illness; review; young adult.