Development of ReachOut Parents: a multi-component online program targeting parents to improve youth mental health outcomes

Abstract

Objective: This paper will describe the formative research underpinning ReachOut Parents, an online prevention and early intervention service that matches parents with different service elements depending on their support needs and preferences.Method: A mixed-methods program of research was conducted to understand the unique role of parents and carers in supporting adolescents’ mental health, specific challenges they face, and their needs and preferences for support. This involved a literature review, an online survey of 1000 Australian parents, and consultation with 32 adolescents.Results: Parents reported needing support to understand and respond appropriately to a number of issues pertinent to the mental health and wellbeing of their adolescents, some of which are unique to this generation of young people. The process of recognising that their child has an emerging mental health problem, understanding that the problem is serious enough to warrant professional intervention, and accessing support services, can be fraught for many parents. A number of barriers can prevent parents from accessing formal services. Parents and young people both agreed that online support services would be valuable to help parents to fulfil their role as a change agent in the mental health and wellbeing of their adolescent/s.Discussion: Parents are uniquely positioned to respond early to their children’s mental health difficulties when these arise. Online services have considerable potential to reach parents, and support them to understand and address emerging mental health problems, in a way that best meets the needs of their child.