The family-centered approach in favor of parents of children with mental disorder: investigation and development of practices in adult mental health in Quebec

Parental mental illness is a major risk factor for children’s development, mental health and well being. Evidence of this risk has been found across the diagnostic spectrum of parental mental illnesses, including depression, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. Nonetheless, the adverse impact of parental mental illness on children is not inevitable. There are numerous evidence-based interventions known to reduce the risk of harm for children. However, in many countries, including Canada, interventions have not been delivered, despite strong evidence for their effectiveness. This project will ascertain the baseline status of family focusing practices in adult mental health settings in Quebec and identify the means to promote family focused practice when a patient, who is a parent caring for dependent children, attends a mental health service.