Young people with caring responsibilities for persons with mental illness or substance use concerns: a rapid systematic review of best practice evidence for identification, engagement, support, and referral

Objective Young people (≤25 years) with caring responsibilities for persons impacted by mental health or substance use constitute a largely overlooked and underserved population. This review examines methods for identifying, engaging, and referring young carers across service sectors (i.e. mental health, substance use, education, vocational, financial). It presents systemic enablers and barriers to accessing support as well as socioemotional efficacy of receiving support.Method A systematic database search from 2013 to 2024 yielded 7,006 records, with 41 meeting inclusion criteria.Results Findings revealed an inadequate collaboration between service sectors, with the mental health sector providing most identification and support pathways. Commonly, young carers self-referred to services, but experienced various barriers to accessing support (e.g. waitlists, stigma, and service funding deficits). Few supports were customised, although tailored support appeared essential due to the diverse roles and characteristics of young carers. Engagement with supports was associated with short-term positive socioemotional outcomes. Most support was offered on a short-term basis without follow-up. Long-term effectiveness could not be studied given the cross-sectional nature of study designs.Discussion Recommendations for identification, referral, strengthening engagement, and support for young carers, at policy, practice, and research levels are provided.PROSPERO registration CRD42023446988.