Christine Migliorini1,2, Danielle Sui-Man Lam3, Carol Harvey1,2. 1. Psychosocial Research Centre, NorthWestern Mental Health Service, Coburg, Victoria, Australia. 2. Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia. 3. Forensicare: Victorian Institute of Forensic Mental Health, Victoria, Australia.
Abstract
AIM: Family and friends are often the first and/or only support options used by young people (12-25 years) struggling with mental health issues. The overarching aim of this literature review is to map current practice in online interventions specifically targeting family and friends of young people with mental health issues, especially relevant in light of the current worldwide COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A rapid scoping literature review was conducted searching health and psychology databases for online interventions targeting family and friends supporting a young person (12-25 years) struggling with a mental health issue. The search strategy was comprehensive and expert librarian endorsed. The final synthesis comprised 13 articles. RESULTS: Identified articles were few, reporting a disparate range of research aims, intervention content and delivery modes. Studies addressing caregivers of adolescents with a mental health diagnosis were small-scale, although suggested virtual modalities are positively received and viable alternatives to other delivery methods with potential for equivalent outcomes. Five randomized control trials involving caregivers of 'at-risk' adolescents reported improved parental knowledge, but mixed effects on family functioning. CONCLUSIONS: Preliminary evidence suggests flexible online options including professional and peer support, to respond to carers' busy lives are needed to maximize benefits. Content that is sufficiently individualized and targeted to address the diverse needs of parents, as well as other caregivers, is also required. Well-being and self-care, in addition to parenting skills should be given more consideration in online interventions. Examination of the value of support from peers is also warranted.
AIM: Family and friends are often the first and/or only support options used by young people (12-25 years) struggling with mental health issues. The overarching aim of this literature review is to map current practice in online interventions specifically targeting family and friends of young people with mental health issues, especially relevant in light of the current worldwide COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A rapid scoping literature review was conducted searching health and psychology databases for online interventions targeting family and friends supporting a young person (12-25 years) struggling with a mental health issue. The search strategy was comprehensive and expert librarian endorsed. The final synthesis comprised 13 articles. RESULTS: Identified articles were few, reporting a disparate range of research aims, intervention content and delivery modes. Studies addressing caregivers of adolescents with a mental health diagnosis were small-scale, although suggested virtual modalities are positively received and viable alternatives to other delivery methods with potential for equivalent outcomes. Five randomized control trials involving caregivers of 'at-risk' adolescents reported improved parental knowledge, but mixed effects on family functioning. CONCLUSIONS: Preliminary evidence suggests flexible online options including professional and peer support, to respond to carers' busy lives are needed to maximize benefits. Content that is sufficiently individualized and targeted to address the diverse needs of parents, as well as other caregivers, is also required. Well-being and self-care, in addition to parenting skills should be given more consideration in online interventions. Examination of the value of support from peers is also warranted.
Authors: Nashit Chowdhury; Ankit Kainth; Atobrhan Godlu; Honey Abigail Farinas; Saif Sikdar; Tanvir C Turin Journal: Int J Environ Res Public Health Date: 2022-05-13 Impact factor: 4.614
Authors: Maria A Fernandez-Canani; Stefany C Burga-Cachay; Mario J Valladares-Garrido Journal: Int J Environ Res Public Health Date: 2022-07-30 Impact factor: 4.614