Dutch intervention programmes for children of mentally ill parents

Item does not contain fulltextPurpose: This presentation will present the outcomes of a practice-based and science-based Dutch initiative to develop a comprehensive national prevention programme focused on children of parents with a mental disorder. An outline of the multicomponent programme is presented which includes a wide set of interventions addressing different risk and protective factors in multiple domains, including children in different age groups, parents and families, social networks, professionals and the community as a whole. Methods: We searched for all publications, including materials in Dutch, reporting the characteristics, the duration and the results of all programmes developed in the Netherlands to address the needs of children with parents suffering from mental disorders. We also report our long-lasting experience in this area. Results: The 20-year history of this programme illustrates the importance of long-term collaborative investments that are required by practitioners, policymakers and scientists to develop and implement a nationwide, comprehensive approach for addressing the transmission of psychiatric problems from the parent to the child(ren). The results of recent controlled studies assessing various preventive interventions will be presented, as well as the findings of rigorous process evaluations. Also, strengths and weaknesses of the current programmes will be discussed and recommendations will be offered to promote changes in terms of programme innovation, implementation and research. Conclusions: These programmes seem essential to prevent the development of psychopathological consequences in children of parents suffering from mental disorders. Their implementation also requires a substantial change in service configuration and delivery, with a much stronger link between child/adolescent and adult mental health services.1 p