Family interventions and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Emerging evidence – there isn’t much evidence on this treatment option yet, but the research that has been carried out suggests that it could be helpful.
Family interventions include things like parent training and multi-systemic family therapy. These therapies are based on the idea that we all influence each other’s behaviour, inside and outside of our families.
Family therapy helps your family members to recognise ways which they could be making your PTSD better or worse. Sometimes the way family members behave can be unhelpful, which can slow down your recovery or make your PTSD symptoms worse. Your professional will support you and your family, which should help improve how you’re feeling and coping.
You will usually have sessions as a whole family for several weeks, although sometimes you might have individual or smaller group sessions.
Treatments outlined on these webpages may not be available in every local area. It’s important that you discuss with your GP or mental health professional the treatment options available to you. You can also search for services near you on our Youth Wellbeing Directory and find out more about referral processes here.