Evaluating a Peer-Facilitated Skills-Based Intervention for Caregivers of Concurrent Disordered Youth

Families of adolescents struggling with comorbid mental illness and addiction problems typically experience considerable emotional, financial and social burdens. Concurrent disorders (CDs) within families contribute to added stress and interpersonal conflict, as well as disrupt normal routines such as social and occupational activities. Despite the difficulties associated with being a family member of youth with CD, current mental health and addictions practices neglect to address this population. The overall purpose of this project is to assess the feasibility and clinical effectiveness of a Dialectical Behaviour Therapy skills (DBT) based training group for families of youth with CDs. The following main hypothesis will be examined: Family members of youth with concurrent disorders who participate in a 12-week skills group led by therapists and/or peer facilitators will show reduced caregiver burden and parenting stress from pre to post treatment.