A NEW study from Deakin University is looking for families with young children living in country communities to participate in a project examining different ways to support families in the face of stress.
The study – Support and Strengthen Families Living in Regional and Rural Communities – aims to improve mental health and wellbeing support for parents of children aged 0-12 in regional and rural areas.
Families will take part in one of two forms of support – Family Foundations or Family Life Check In – to determine which of the options works best to support families.
Participants will be randomly allocated evenly to either program with different time commitments required for each.
The Family Life Check In offers a one-off 30-minute phone call with a health professional to discuss family wellbeing and relationships, and identify any necessary support.
For Family Foundations, there will be eight one-hour sessions conducted by a health professional running roughly on a weekly basis following the randomisation process.
Lead researcher Professor Rebecca Giallo said rural communities are disproportionately affected by natural disasters and hopes the project will provide the necessary evidence to ensure the right care is provided in the face of extreme weather events.
“Between 20 per cent and 30 per cent of adults and children experience significant stress and mental health challenges following environmental disasters,” Professor Giallo said.
“But it can be difficult for people living in rural communities to access appropriate support at the time when they need it the most. Our project aims to better understand how different types of support can assist families, and we look forward to working with families who choose to take part.”
Preliminary and follow-up surveys will also be conducted alongside the support programs.
To take part, at least two parents, caregivers, or parenting partners from each family must agree to participate.
Expressions of interest are currently being taken. More information can be found on Deakin University’s Projects page, or by searching for the program directly.
