COPMI Updates

New Program added - Young Carers Project - Brisbane South

Young Carers are children or young people who help care for someone in their family who has a chronic illness, or disability, or mental illness or alcohol/drug issue. Young carers usually have more responsibilities in their households than their peers, and their caring role can have a significant impact on their social interactions, emotional and physical health, schooling and their ability to provide ongoing care in the family. The Young Carers Project (YCP) - Brisbane South is funded by the Australian Government Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs and is managed by FSG Australia, which is a secular not-for-profit community organisation. YCP provides support to school students who are the primary carer for a relative or friend, and may be at risk of leaving school early because of their caring role. YCP support may include the provision of domestic assistance, tutoring, advocacy, counselling, social activities, and is provided free to young carers. YCP assists young carers to access some of the same opportunities and freedoms enjoyed by their peers and works to help them do well at school. Young carers, family members and service providers can contact FSG to arrange a time to meet with the young person and the person/s they care for to assess eligibility for support.

New Program added - Auckland New Zealand Tu Tangata Tonu Programme

Tu Tangata Tonu is a Service within Kari Centre (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service at ADHB) that provides support for children in families where there is parental mental illness. This may include one or more of the interventions described below: * CONNECT - Practical support for families via Family Support Workers. Supports are individualized to your family's needs. Connect is a non government organisation working in collaboration with Tu Tangata Tonu. * KIDZONE - A group for 8-12 year olds to provide age appropriate information regarding mental illness, peer support and activities for children. Kidzone runs for three days during school holidays. * H.O.P.E. (Helping Ourselves Parent Effectively) - A parent support and skills group, which explores issues relating to parenting with a mental illness. H.O.P.E. runs during the day during term time. * YOUTHZONE - A group for teenagers to provide age-appropriate information regarding mental illness, and receive peer support. Youthzone runs after school during term time. * FAMILY THERAPY/FAMILY WORK - Addressing issues relevant to each family either together or via parent/child sessions as negotiated. * REFERRAL TO OTHER SERVICES - Support in accessing appropriate services.

New Program added - Litmus

Litmus is a support service for young carers and their families where there is a family member affected by mental illness. The services provided include one-on-one support, intensive case management for the young carer and their family, support to the family member affected by mental illness, information, referral, advocacy, support groups, social and recreational activities and community development and education.

New Program added - CYCLOPS (Connecting Young Carers to Life Opportunities and Personalised Supports)

The CYCLOPS (Connecting Young Carers to Life Opportunites and Personalised Supports) program supports young carers aged 10-18 caring for a family member affected by mental illness, chronic illness, disablity and/or alcohol and substance misuse. The services provided include one-on-one support, intensive case management, information, advocacy, referral, support groups, social and recreational activities and community education and development.

New Resource added - 'Supporting Children Whose Parent is Admitted to a Mental Health Unit' Brochure

The brochure assists families and staff to create a helpful response to meet the needs of a consumer/parent, carer, child and staff when a child or young person visits a mental health unit. The brochure can be downloaded and modified to meet the needs of the local adult mental health unit.

New Resource added - Talking to dads about bonding

Information for dads about bonding (attachment) between father and infant and how the emotional connection between dad and baby will influence their child's development.

New Resource added - Family relationships online

A new site for people who care for other people's children (e.g. foster carers, kinship carers and others) has been developed.

New Resource added - Puerperal psychosis - A carer's survival guide

A booklet providing excellent information for partners of women with puerperal psychosis, written by a carer who has lived through this experience. Craig provides a well-organised, personalized and detailed account of how partners might manage when they face the twin challenges of not only a new infant but also a significant mental illness in the postnatal period.

New Resource added - My side of the story

My Side of the Story is a collection of short films designed by young carers. The idea to share their stories was based on a desire to let other young people, who are also carers, know they are not alone and that there is support available. The video can be viewed at:

New Program added - YP-COPMI

Covering the geographical areas of Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, the Hunter Valley and surrounds. Consultation and education to Tamworth, Moree, Inverell and Armidale as requested. YP-COPMI is a clinical team whose staff include a clinical psychologist, two clinical nurse specialists and a registered nurse. YP-COPMI is part of Child and Adolescent Mental Health however, works within community adult mental health teams in the Hunter region to provide COPMI services which include the identification of vulnerable young people, consultation to adult care co-ordinators, education to families, COPMI group activity days every school holidays and alternating after school programs during the school terms. The team's core business is the provision of direct clinical work with children and their families. YP-COPMI arranges appropriate referral pathways for children and young people if after assessment further need for service is indicated. The team in partnership with adult mental health services, also sees some older adolescents who are being seen within the adult mental health system and assists adult mental health to provide appropriate age based care. Education, in service and consultation is also provided to community members, health staff, education, non government organisations and other services regarding COPMI issues.

New Resource added - Mining Family Matters Website

Mining Family Matters is committed to providing practical, professional information, services and support to families in the mining and resources sector.

New Resource added - Role reversal - when your child becomes your carer

A booklet about what it's like to rely on younger care-giving - written and illustrated by care-recipients.

New Program added - Young Carers Respite & Information Services Program - Southern Region

The Young Carers Respite and Information Services Program assists young carers who need support to complete their education due to the demands of their caring role. The program has two components: RESPITE SERVICES Respite services enable school aged young carers to access respite and age appropriate support, including educational, social and recreational activities (eg time off to study for exams, tutoring, skills development or activities during the school holidays). INFORMATION SERVICES Young carers up to and including 25 years of age can access information, advice and referral services, including referral to counselling, to support them to manage the challenges they face as part of their caring role.

New Program added - COPMI Adolescent Program - Ipswich

COPMI Adolescent Program is a psychoeducative and supportive group for 12 to 18 year olds who are living with a parent or relative that has a mental illness. The Program is held over three days (with one week between groups) during school time, from 10am to 5pm. All of the activities and food are provided free of charge. Transport can also be provided, if within the Ipswich and Goodna area.

New Resource added - Family Talk Preventive Intervention

The Family Talk Preventive Intervention is a public health, strength-based, and family centered program designed to support families in which one or both parents have depression. This evidence based practice partners with families to improve relationships and functioning by educating families on depression risk factors and understanding the benefits of applying protective factors to promote resiliency, resulting in few incidents of depression in children.

New Resource added - e-learning - Parental substance misuse

These elearning resources are freely available to all. They provide audio, video and interactive technology to assist in exploring parental substance misuse, its effects on children and parenting capacity and the implications for social work practitioners.

New Program added - Child and Family - Eastern and Central Suburbs

Child and Family is a new integrated service for children and families with a range of complex issues. These may include mental health, parental neglect, abuse (or risk of), drug and alcohol, complex parenting issues, domestic violence, CALD/Indigenous, etc. Child and Family works with voluntary clients in the short-medium term. Generally most clients will work with Child and Family for a period of 3 - 12 months, though in some cases this may be longer. Child and Family will accept cases with or without Community Services involvement, and families can directly refer. Child and Family will accept referrals for matters involving a child 0 - 17, with priority for the 0 - 5 years. There will also be a strong focus on the needs of clients with pre and post natal issues. Child and Family will prioritise clients from socially and economically disadvantaged backgrounds who may be at risk of, or who have become involved in, the child protection system. Child and Family is predominately a home-based service. In departure from previous practice, Child and Family does not prepare court reports. Child and Family is not an assessment only service. Child and Family does not conduct assessments in terms of restoration viability however, can continue to support families where the court has ordered restoration. Generally, Child and Family will not accept referrals where: * there is a less-complex single issue present (eg social isolation) * there is another more suitable services (eg Brighter Futures, KIF or FYL) * longer term psychotherapy support is required * the family is outside of area (geographical boundaries include all eastern and central suburbs). Referrals for Child and Family can be sent to Rosebery@bensoc.org.au or by telephone via the Duty Worker on 02 8314 9400. Once a referral is received, a Child and Family Practitioner will meet with the family within 14 days. The aim is to then conduct an initial assessment and case plan with the family within the next three weeks. The benefits of referring to Child and Family: * client centred service with a strong child focus * large team of highly experienced specialist staff * single entry point to access a range of TBS services * highly flexible service that is easy to access and responsive to need * home based focus for service (although, centrally located office is also available) While Child and Family will offer clients, where appropriate, after hours support Child and Family is not a crisis or emergency service.

New Program added - COPMI - Murrumbidgee LHN

Provides information, education, support and advocacy for young carers 8-18 years of age.

New Resource added - Music Feedback

This website contains music and videos from musicians talking about mental health and also provides links and tips to useful information on your own mental health; where to get help, how to help others and where you can go to talk to someone. Music Feedback targets 14 to 25-year-olds and encourages them to: - participate in music and healthy activities to improve their wellbeing - express themselves and connect with others - talk about mental health and get early help for any problems - understand and support their peers and people with a mental illness - study and work in mental health

New Program added - Keys to CareGiving

Keys to CareGiving is a one day training program developed by Professor Kathryn Barnard, founder of NCAST Programs, University of Washington, Seattle USA. Keys to Caregiving focuses on the amazing capacity of the newborn infant's ability to engage with their parent and how this information can be explained to parents. It has a strong focus on infant communication cues, and helps nurses to support parents in recognising early and subtle infant cues and provide sensitive, contingent caregiving. It is especially valuable for clinicians who work with parents, infants and young children who are experiencing significant difficulties within the parent-child relationship. The knowledge provided by the program is also relevant to parents with older infants and toddlers. Keys to Caregiving is designed for all levels of health care professionals working in the maternity units, community settings as well as directly offered to families pre and post natally. Ideally, learning the Keys program occurs best in a group setting with an identified leader. The Keys to Caregiving Program: * Builds confidence and competence in parents/caregivers' care of their infants. * Increases caregivers knowledge of the infant's amazing capabilities. * Helps identify challenges in parenting/caregiving abilities . * Directs staff and client change. Tresillian is providing the Keys to Caregiving Program to families, paraprofessionals and professionals in many settings, including prenatal classes, child health clinics, home visiting, university curriculums and other community programs. Keys to CareGiving is recognised and adopted in most Australian states and is targeted at health professionals, in particular child and family health nurses and midwives. Keys to Caregiving provides a framework for their interventions with parents concentrating on infant behaviour, its effect on the caregiver/infant interactions and different ways for health professionals to help transfer this knowledge to parents. The one day program incorporates a mix of didactic and interactive learning, and includes DVD examples of infant, parent and nurse interactions, a workbook and small group work. The following five topics are comprehensively explored: * Infant State * Infant Behaviour * Infant Cues * State Modulation * The Feeding Interaction Keys to Caregiving is the prerequisite training program to attend the NCAST Parent Child Interaction Scales Workshop.

New Program added - ARAFMI Youth Program - Perth Metropolitan Area

Mental illness has a major effect on all family members, including young people. ARAFMI Youth Services seeks to assist young people through support and information in their emotional, psychological, social or behavioural development. The ARAFMI Youth Services Program provides age appropriate services and resource material to improve the coping ability of 8 to 18 year olds who have a family member with a mental illness through the following: SPECIALIST COUNSELLING Appointments are available at an ARAFMI office or the child's school. Topics discussed include the following: * Coping skills * Appropriate ways of managing distressing emotions * Education on mental illness * Distressing feelings and behaviours * Positive self-image and self confidence * Knowledge of support services and numbers to call in an emergency TELEPHONE SUPPORT, INFORMATION AND REFERRAL The above services are available for young people, families and service providers.

New Resource added - Puzzles, pictures, and paper airplanes: What we do when our parents get sick (USA)

Strategies for young children of mentally ill parents.

New Resource added - Why are you so sad? (USA)

When a parent has depression, children often feel sad and confused themselves. This interactive book can help by: - Explaining depression and its treatment in kid terms - Reassuring children that their parents can get better - Exploring the many feelings children usually have - Helping children understand and express their feelings - Providing practical tips for coping with a parent's depression - Showing children how they can feel better too

New Resource added - Parenting Resource Kit

Families and mental health -A parenting resource kit is an important resource in addressing the mental health needs of families with a parent who has a mental illness. This kit gives families information about parenting, support services and other resources, and includes stories from people who share their own life experiences.

New Program added - Sydney Local Health Network COPMI Program (previously SSWAHS) - Marrickville, Redfern, Camperdown, Canterbury, Croydon, Bankstown and Surrounds

Covering the geographical areas of Marrickville, Redfern, Camperdown, Canterbury, Croydon, Bankstown and surrounds. Provision of resources, clinical work and group programs for families and children where a parent has a mental illness. Education, inservice and consultation also provided to community members, health staff, education, non government organisations and other services regarding COPMI issues.

New Program added - Mum's Well Being Group

The Mum's Well Being Group is for women who are at risk or have a diagnosis of antenatal/postnatal depression or anxiety with a baby under 12 months of age.

New Resource added - How Centrelink social workers can help you

A publication outlining the services and assistance provided by Centrelink social workers.

New Resource added - When a parent has a mental illness

Did you know that there are lots of children who have a parent who might take medicine for feeling sad, getting very angry for no reason, not wanting to join in with things or saying and doing strange things? That may be because they have a mental illness. This video gives an idea of what might be going on for some and is aimed at young carers themselves. Young carers talk about their lives caring for a parent with mental illness. Narrated by Chineye, a young carer herself, the film also explains in a very simple and visual way how the brain works and what happens when things go wrong.

New Resource added - Improving the safety, health and wellbeing of children through improving the physical and mental health of mothers, fathers and carers (U.K.)

This research review tells us what works in improving the safety, health and wellbeing of children through improving the physical and mental health of mothers, fathers and carers. It is based on a rapid review of the research literature involving systematic searching of literature and presentation of key data. It summarises the best available evidence that will help service providers to improve services and, ultimately, outcomes for children, young people and their families.

New Resource added - Improving children‟s outcomes by supporting parental physical and mental health (U.K.)

This knowledge review tells us what works in improving the safety, health and wellbeing of children through improving the physical and mental health of mothers, fathers and carers. It is based on a rapid review of the research literature involving systematic searching of literature, analysis of key data, validated local practice examples, views from service providers and the users of services. It summarises the best available evidence that will help service providers to improve services and, ultimately, outcomes for children, young people and their families.

New Resource added - The beyondblue Guide for Carers (also available in Greek, Italian, Chinese (simplified), Vietnamese, Arabic and Dari)

Based on the personal stories of the carers, this guide offers helpful advice and tips about caring for others and caring for yourself: - how to get through the tough times - what worked (and what didn't) - how to overcome a range of difficulties - how to support the person with the illness - how to access support that?s available to carers. The translated versions can be downloaded from the beyondblue website at http://www.beyondblue.org.au/index.aspx?link_id=102.942

New Resource added - Young Carers W.A.

This website provides information and advice for Young Carers on looking after yourself, coping with school and your caring role, supports you can access and much more! Plus, keep up to date with news and events that you can get involved in at Carers WA and have your say about how it feels to be a Young Carer. This website also offers relevant information for teachers about supporting Young Carers in the school system.

New Program added - Eastern Parentzone Program

Eastern Parentzone provides resources to parents and professionals who work with parents, across the eastern metropolitan area of Melbourne. Parentzone staff predominantly facilitate parent education groups and workshops in the office at Bayswater. Limited one on one consultations are available for parents. In addition, Eastern Parentzone also produces a newsletter/magazine each school term which contains information regarding Parentzone programs and activities and also information on programs being offerred by other parenting organisations accross the eastern metropolitan area. Eastern Parentzone has a resource library at Anglicare's office in Bayswater. Parents and professionals can borrow books, for a fully refundable deposit of $5.00 from the library and can also access other resources (eg parenting 'tip sheets'). Eastern Parentzone can be contacted on 03 9721 3646, between 1pm to 4pm from Monday to Friday.

New Program added - Carer Support Services

ARAFEMI is a non-profit community based organisation, which works from a recovery perspective. ARAFEMI is unique as it houses both the peak support agency for carers of people with a mental illness and a broad range of consumer services. Our mission is to promote and improve the wellbeing of people affected by mental illness. Our Family/Carer Support Program values the lived experience of people who support those with mental illness. We recognise the role that families, friends and carers play in the ongoing recovery from mental illness. As a leader in Statewide peer support for carers, we listen and support the voice of families towards better mental health through our Helpline, support groups and online services.

New Program added - Early Parenting Centre

The QEC provides a range of specialised care, support and guidance to help parents manage the various challenges that arise during early parenthood, from before birth until 48 months. Priority is given to families that face physical, psychological, intellectual or environmental challenges that compromise their ability to provide an environment that nurtures and supports the health and wellbeing of their infants. The QEC provides residential, day, group, home visiting and telephone advice services at the QEC's Noble Park site or through regional outreach bases at Morwell, Coburg, Wangaratt and Wodonga.

New Program added - SMILES Program (Education for Young Mental Health Carers) - Tweed Heads through to Taree

WHY SUCH A PROGRAM? When this program was developed in 1997, the needs of children living in a family affected by mental health problems were largely ignored. As the awareness of children's issues increased, so did the demand for suitable intervention material and programs. The SMILES Program was developed to meet these needs. As these children are themselves potential consumers and our future carers, if not already in this role, it is vitally important that their needs are addressed at the earliest possible opportunity. The impact on their lives now and in the future can be devastating, however with appropriate intervention we can assist them to achieve more positive outcomes. WHO IS THE SMILES PROGRAM SUITABLE FOR? Children who have a mother, father, brother or sister experiencing a mental health problem (particularly schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression or anxiety). It has been specifically designed for a group of 8-12 year olds, or a group of 13-16 year olds. The program is not designed for children who have diagnosed problems themselves. The program will work best with a minimum of eight and maximum of 10 children. Many of the activities are also suitable for use with a child in individual counselling sessions, if it is not possible to provide a group program. However, the benefit of the group experience is the shared peer interaction and the interaction with mentors (if available), plus it is time effective. The SMILES Program is designed to achieve: * Increased ability to cope effectively * Increased resiliency * A new freedom for self expression * Development of creativity * Reduction in feelings of isolation * Increase in self-esteem * and much more! This is achieved through: * Education about mental illness * Communication exercises * Interactive exercises * Artwork and music * Relaxation exercises * Problem solving * Peer support This all takes place in a fun-filled, supportive and caring atmosphere. WHEN IS THE SMILES PROGRAM RUN? It is a 3 day program therefore would be best suited to the school holiday period. Each day is from 9am-3pm. CHILD PROTECTION POLICY/LEGISLATION Anyone involved with the program (including employees and volunteers)(eg facilitating, assisting with transport or any other aspect) who will have direct contact with the children will be required to comply with relevant child protection policy/legislation and requirements for the state/country where the program is being delivered.

New Resource added - My Care - Caring for a parent with a mental health problem

It is tough being a young carer and it can be particulary tough for young carers whose parent has a mental health problem. This booklet is part of our MyCare investigation and is for all children and young people who are caring for a parent who has a mental health problem. This publication is available as a free PDF download, or can be purchased in printed form.

New Program added - Carer Consultant Support

The new Carer Consultant role supports the carers and families of mental health consumers in the Peel and Rockingham/Kwinanan (PaRK) Health Services. The Carer Consultant runs support groups and education and training events. One-to-one support is provided by the Carer Consultant whereby information on mental health, the carers experience and support services for the carer and family can be provided. The Carer Consultant is a carer in their personal life and can talk about their real experience of being a carer. The Carer Consultant also works with the consumer, staff and services to maximise support, recognition and respect for the carers and family.

New Program added - Holyoake Family AOD Programs, Catholiccare Sydney

The Kaleidoscope Plus Program runs over 8 weeks and offers a safe and therapeutic environment for children and young people aged between 5-17 years who have been affected by a family members alcohol and other drug issues co-occurring with mental illness. The Kaleidoscope Plus Program aims to: - increase children and young people's understanding about the realationship between drug and alcohol and mental health issues - validate children's experiences of drug and alcohol and mental health issues in the family - promote a sense of collectiveness and inclusion - explore and develop skills in problem solving and managing difficult emotions - to promote confidence and self-esteem. These aims are achieved through the provision of art and craft activities, educational material, interactive activities and relaxation exercises that are all provided in a fun and supportive atmosphere.

New Resource added - You Can Ask!

You Can Ask! offers ideas for helping 3 to 8 year-old children build important social and emotional skills as well as cope with whatever comes their way. Troubling and uncertain times have an emotional impact on grown-ups as well as children. These tips can help you and your child face and talk about unsettling events.

New Resource added - Feelings

Sesame Playlists are a collection of games and videos that have been carefully selected to provide your child with just the right mix of entertainment and education. A playlist includes seven games or videos based on content grouped around an educational theme,; some are all videos, others are all games, and some are a combination of the two.

New Program added - International Association of Infant Massage (IAIM) Certified Infant Massage Classes - Available Nationally

This program provides parents and babies with time, opportunities and encouragement to discover and practice different forms of positive touch, massage, movement and non-verbal communication to enhance the unique relationship and bond between each parent and baby. Many different styles of touch and communication are taught to help: - soothe and settle babies, - promote healthy sleep patterns, - relieve pains and discomfort, and - support the unique, individual pace of development of each baby. In addition, parents also have the opportunity to explore and learn about the ways in which their baby uses body language, sounds and other signals to communicate their needs. Many parents find this is one of the most valuable aspects of the IAIM program. Research about this program suggests that it is useful for most families who are dealing with the normal challenges of becoming a new parent. Research also supports the benefits of this program where families may be having some additional challenges - such as Postnatal Depression, multiple births, premature birth, a baby who has a serious medical condition or disability, and parents who are dealing with addiction or mental illness. The IAIM program is taught in a series of relaxed and unhurried workshops, in small, comfortable, non-judgemental and friendly group settings. Classes are held continuously, in most parts of Australia. Typically, they run for about one hour a week, for five weeks. Qualified instructors in various locations are listed on the IAIM website (http://www.iaim.org.au).

New Program added - Kids Club

Kids Club is a fortnightly after school program for children who have a family or whanau member who experiences mental illness. The Kids Club pilot group started in June 2010. The aim of the group has been to provide an opportunity for children (ages 8-12) to have ongoing contact (following a three day educational program on mental illness) and to enjoy fun activities together.

New Resource added - The Coloured Kit Care Plan

This Care Plan is part of The Coloured Kit (a resource that provides support and information for young people and their families, where a parent has a mental illness/dual diagnosis). The Kit was designed to support and empower young people and their families and was produced as collaboration between a group of experienced young people, the Youth Coalition and the Children of Parents with a Mental Illness Project, Mental Health ACT. [Australia]

New Resource added - GP Notes: Relapse Signature

This information sheet is part of a collection of practical resources available for GPs to assist in the management of mood disorders in their clinical work. Comprised of five sections, the materials include fact sheets for GPs and patients, questionnaires to assist GPs in the assessment of depression, charts to assist with treatment protocols, tools for self-monitoring, and exercises for patients. Health professionals are welcome to download copies of these resources for use in their clinical work, retaining the acknowledgement of the Black Dog Institute as the source. The purpose of this sheet is to help people who have had a depressive illness episode to establish their relapse signature - the characteristic pattern of thinking and behaving that could signal th start of future epidoses.

New Resource added - Working with parents with mental illness. Clinical interview prompt sheet.

Queensland Health is committed to promoting the protection, safety, health and wellbeing of children and young people who have a parent with a mental illness. Mental health clinicians are required to make decisions about how a consumer?s mental illness affects their parenting role in order to provide improved services and attend to the legal and ethical responsibilities of their role as a health professional. The prompt questions outlined have been developed as a guide for use by mental health workers if they are unsure of the types of questions to ask a parent with a mental illness. It should be noted that these questions have been developed as a guide only and are not to be used as a structured interview. This fact sheet should be read in conjunction with the Queensland Health guidelines ? Working with parents with mental illness ? guidelines for mental health clinicians.

New Resource added - Working with parents with mental illness. Risk protection factors.

Phase and pattern of mental illness and co-morbidities - the type, length, duration, persistence, frequency & acuity of symptoms of mental illness should all be considered when assessing the impact of mental illness on parenting. The parent, child, extended family and community experience of, and knowledge about, mental illness are also important to understand and evaluate. Other mental or physical health problems or disabilities experienced by parent or child should be carefully considered. Children of parents with co-existing mental health and substance use problems(dual diagnosis) need to be identified as they are a particularly vulnerable group in need of additional support.

New Resource added - Working with parents with mental illness. Guidelines for mental health clinicians.

Children of parents with mental illness (COPMI) have been identified in both the Queensland Plan for Mental Health 2007-2017 and the National Mental Health Plan?An agenda for collaborative government action in mental health 2009-2014 as a priority group in the reform and development of mental health care. Queensland Health is committed to promoting the protection, safety, health and wellbeing of children and young people who have a parent living with mental illness. The Queensland Health policy?Meeting the needs of children for whom a person with a mental illness has care responsibilities, outlines in detail the principles and requirements for working with these children and their parents/carers within the mental health service system. These guidelines have been developed to further assist mental health clinicians to support consumers in one of the most demanding, challenging and rewarding life roles?that of parenting.

New Resource added - Working with parents with mental illness - Guidelines for mental health clinicians overview

The aim of thesse guidelines is to: - provide a framework for the ongoing consideration of risk and protective factors in relation to any child protection concerns. - assist in identification of support needs for the parent/carer in relation to their parenting role. - assist in identification of the support needs of the children regarding their parent?s /carer?s mental illness.

New Resource added - My Care Booklet - Caring for a parent with a mental health problem

This booklet is for all children and young people who are caring for a parent who has a mental health problem.

New Program added - ARAFMI School Holiday Program

The ARAFMI School Holiday Program is for young carers to come along and meet other young carers in a safe and friendly environment. The young carers are able to have some 'time out' from being in the carer role and have fun with other young carers who are in similar situations. The young carers participate in a variety of activities which promote social skills, confidence and challenges. The School Holiday Program is free for young carers aged between 8 and 18 years old and who live north of the river.

New Program added - ARAFMI School Education Program - Metropolitan Area and Bunbury

The School Education Program is an innovative mental wellbeing program aimed at dispelling the myths and misconceptions surrounding mental illness and promoting mental wellbeing. The program has been developed and is presented by people with personal experience of mental illness. The School Education Program is a free program aimed at secondary school students and teacher professional development that covers the metropolitan area as well as Bunbury. The program is a member of the statewide Mental Illness Education Australia Coalition.

New Program added - Arafmi Youth Program - Northern and Eastern Perth Metropolitan Area

Mental illness has a major effect on all family members, including young people. ARAFMI Youth Services seeks to assist young people through support and information in their emotional, psychological, social or behavioural development. The ARAFMI Youth Services Program provides age appropriate services and resource material to improve the coping ability of 8-18 year olds who have a family member with a mental illness through the following: SPECIALIST COUNSELLING Appointments are available at an ARAFMI office or the child's school. Topics discussed include the following: * Coping skills * Appropriate ways of managing distressing emotions * Education on mental illness * Distressing feelings and behaviours * Positive self-image and self confidence * Knowledge of support services and numbers to call in an emergency TELEPHONE SUPPORT, INFORMATION AND REFERRAL The above services are available for young people, families and service providers.

New Resource added - Family Sensitive Practice Toolkit

This toolkit aims to minimise cases of child abuse or neglect by increasing collaboration between child and adult service agencies. It is a new initiative developed by NCETA to improve the safety and welfare of children with parents who misuse alcohol or drugs. The toolkit builds a bridge between the alcohol and other drugs (AOD) treatment and child protection sectors to improve cooperation and collaboration. For Kids Sake comprises a comprehensive list of ideas and practical suggestions that organisations can adopt to be more child and family sensitive. The toolkit and all of its individual components can be downloaded from the NCETA website or hard copies can be obtained free of charge. An alternative to the hard copy is a CD ROM which contains the toolkit plus a copy of Australia's National Framework for Protecting Australia's Children, assessment tools, UK and Australian resources and an article by Emeritus Professor Dorothy Scott (the inaugral Director, Australian Centre for Child Protection).

New Resource added - At a glance 32- Think child, think parent, think family: a briefing for senior managers

This At a glance briefing looks at how senior managers can improve the health, wellbeing and life chances of parents with mental health problems and their families. Better joined-up working between services for adults with mental health problems and children?s services is essential to achieving this. This briefing, supported by the Mental Health Network at the NHS Confederation, summarises SCIE?s Think child, think parent, think family guide. It includes early findings from 10 implementation sites working to put the guide in to practice. The guide promotes a whole-family approach to parental mental health and child welfare. Also available as a pdf http://www.scie.org.uk/publications/ataglance/ataglance32.pdf

New Resource added - Change for Children campaign

The Change for Children campaign is facilitated by the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth (ARACY) and its members. The campaign is directed at demonstrating to governments and other stakeholders that there is widespread support within the community for positive change for children. This website aims to bring together the diverse community of people who are working towards and support improved health and wellbeing for children and young people. We are building a network of Campaign Partners committed to creating a society more supportive of allocation of resources, programs and policies that enhance child wellbeing and protection from harm, and ensure that services, programs and policies are delivered collaboratively to meet their needs in the future Our three main objectives are: 1. Improve community understanding about factors that threaten or enhance child and young people?s wellbeing 2. Empower parents and the community to better engage with children and young people, to more adequately meet their social and emotional developmental needs 3. Create the social environment necessary to build widespread understanding and support for the needs of young Australians.

New Resource added - Early Childhood and Parenting Services Scoping Study

In 2007, the Hunter Institute of Mental Health was funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing (DoHA) to undertake the Early Childhood and Parenting Services Scoping Study (ECPSSS). The purpose of the study was to provide an overview of the mental health services available for children and adolescents across Australia; and the service system available to support families from a mental health, illness prevention and early intervention perspective. Completed over a four month period, the scoping process included a search and examination of relevant policies and strategic initiatives; a literature review on the types of parenting support with evidence of effectiveness; and interviews with key informants from each state and territory. Over 50 key informant interviews were conducted with representatives of government departments responsible for child health, mental health, child welfare, community services, disability and education. The interviews focused on service system characterisation and provided an opportunity for key informants to indicate areas of unmet need and opportunities that could be built upon. The final report provides an overview of: - Mental health services available for children and youth with emerging or diagnosable mental health problems; and - Services that have positive impact on the mental health and wellbeing of children and adolescents, and designed to support :New parents :Parents of children 3-6 years of age :Parents of dependent youth (3-18 years of age)with emerging mental health difficulties.

New Resource added - Support in Mind Scotland

Support in Mind Scotland has produced three booklets to break down the barriers to communication for families in this situation: It's About You Too!, (for children aged 8-10), Need to Know? (for young people aged 11-14), Making Time to Talk (advice for parents). All three booklets are designed either to be read by family members or used as a communication tool by professionals who work with families and include an explanation of what mental illness is, what other common mental health terms mean and how mental illness can affect people. All three booklets focus on the importance of open and honest communications in promoting understanding and combating stigma. [UK]

New Resource added - Kids Central

The kit was developed in response to a research project conducted by the Institute on experiences of homelessness for accompanying children. Staff met with children and talked to them about what life was like for them when they were homeless, what they felt they and their families wanted and needed and how they thought kids might get better support.

New Resource added - Multicutural Mental Health Australia

Multicultural Mental Health Australia (MMHA) is a national program aimed at improving awareness of mental health and suicide prevention in culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities. In collaboration with other stakeholders, MMHA actively promotes the mental health and wellbeing of Australia's diverse communities through policy advice, public promotion, resource development and community capacity building. A key component of all these projects is to empower CALD consumers and carers to tell their personal stories to reduce stigma and to provide expert comment on national initiatives and relevant policy. MMHA is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing through the National Mental Health Strategy.

New Resource added - The Satellite Foundation

The Satellite Foundation is committed to providing children, young people and their families where a parent has a mental illness with opportunities to participate in peer support, activities and events that offer support, information, hope and social connections.

New Resource added - Moving Minds

Moving Minds is a unique collection of first person Australian stories. Frank, fragile and funny the stories explore the many varied and winding paths to recovery travelled by people living with mental illness. This collection of 13 two to three minute short digital films include tales of homelessness, road-trips to beyond, visits from the green man and the quandary of being sane by choosing to live between the lines of 'normal'.

New Resource added - Preventive interventions in families with parental depression

The aim is to document the effectiveness of a preventive family intervention (Family Talk Intervention, FTI) and a brief psychoeducational discussion with parents (Let's Talk about the Children, LT) on children's psychosocial symptoms and prosocial behaviour in families with parental mood disorder, when the interventions are practiced in psychiatric services for adults in the Finnish national health service.

New Resource added - Chronic conditionself management project

The learning resource is made up of six modules and aims to strengthen the capacity of psychiatrists to support chronic condition self-management. By reading through the modules, viewing the video material, listening to the audio recordings and completing the reflection and writing tasks, psychiatrists will improve their knowledge, skills and attributes required for collaborative patient-centred care. This site provides copies of, and links to, a range of resources, tools and agencies to assist patients and carers with self-management and to assist psychiatrists in providing optimal self-management support.

New Resource added - Patient Experiences - You'd think this roller coaster was never going to stop

The aims of this qualitative study were to explore the experience of being an adult child of a parent with serious mental illness and how adult children have coped with their experience.

New Program added - Young Carers Respite and Information Services Program

Young carers are children and young people up to and including 25 years of age who help provide care in families where someone has a mental illness, disability, chronic illness, is frail aged or has an alcohol or other substance problem. The Young Carers Respite and Information Services Program assists young carers who need support to complete their secondary education or vocational equivalent due to the demands of their caring role. The program has two components: - Respite services: enables school aged young carers to access respite and age appropriate support, including educational, social and recreational activities, for example taking a break (respite), time off to study for exams, tutoring, skills development, help at home or activities during the school holidays. Respite services are delivered by the network of Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centres. For further information contact your local Centre on 1800 052 222*. - Information services: young carers up to and including 25 years can access information, advice and referral services to support them in managing the challenges they face as part of their caring role, for example advice, counselling, finding someone to talk to, getting help and support. These services are delivered by Carers Australia and its network of Carers Associations. They can be contacted on 1800 242 636*. * A free call except from mobile phones. Calls from mobile phones are charged at mobile rates.

New Program added - Young Carers Program - Blacktown, Auburn, Paramatta, Hills Shire and Holroyd

The Young Carers Project is a nationwide program supporting young people up to 25 years of age who are caring for a parent, grandparent or sibling with a mental illness, disability, chronic health issue or drug and substance abuse issues. These children have been identified as being at risk of not completing their secondary education schooling due to their caring role. The program helps young people better manage and balance their caring responsibilities and education. How does the project may support young carers: - Activities and outings with other young carers - Funding may be provided for camps over school holiday periods - Support with studies through a tutoring program - Assistance with basic housework, cooking and cleaning chores - Access to transport for doctors and hospital appointments - Assistance applying for the Carer Allowance through Centrelink when appropriate - Advocacy and counselling support - Referrals to other services and community organisations - Giving the young carer a break from their caring role

New Program added - Ipswich Supported Playgroup for Parents with Mental Illness

Supported Playgroup for parents with mental illness and their children aged 0-5 years. Free playgroup with 2 playgroup workers to facilitate activities. Parents are required to stay with their children. Run on Thursday mornings from 9.30am to 11.30am during the school terms at the Riverview Neighbourhood Centre, Riverview.

New Program added - POPPY Playgroup Illawarra (Parents Opportunity to Participate in Play with their Young)

POPPY Playgroup offers weekly play and information sessions featuring guest speakers. The sessions include information on child development and related behaviour issues, stress management, nutrition information, speech therapy, early literacy, child safety, mental health issues, toilet training, family budgeting, Quit smoking, meditation and informal discussion on a variety of subjects initiated by parents. The sessions feature regular visits from professionals (eg paediatric registrar, speech pathologist, librarian). Referrals for other services are made as requested to a wide variety of health, child and family services in the community. Families can also be assisted with pre-school or school entry for children. A program is developed each term to stimulate the development and learning of the children attending. Activities include early literacy and play experiences. A program of activities is planned each week for children such as play dough, painting, construction toys, books and stories and physical activities. Workers set up activities and model play techniques with the young children, including age appropriate redirection of children's behaviour demonstrating to parents how to manage children in a positive way. Age appropriate behaviours are explained. Parents and children are encouraged to participate in the planning of lunch which is provided. Transport is supplied weekly for those families who assistance.

New Resource added - Harvard University: Center on the Developing Child

Drawing on the resources available across Harvard University's schools and affiliated hospitals, the Center on the Developing Child generates, translates, and applies knowledge in the service of improving life outcomes for children in the United States and throughout the world. This website covers a broad range of topics including: Science of Early Childhood, Understanding Intervention, Science & policy, New Research, Learning Opportunities, Child & Family Mental Health. Visit the 'Library' for a comprehensive array of briefing papers, reports and articles.

New Resource added - Program fidelity and adaptation: Meeting local needs without compromising program effectiveness

From the 'What Works, Wisconsin - Research To Practice Series', University of Wisconsin‐Madison and University of Wisconsin?Extension. A major appeal of evidence‐based programs is their promise of effectiveness. These programs have shown, through rigorous evaluations, that they can significantly affect important outcomes for participants. The best of them have demonstrated positive effects in a number of different settings. For policymakers, funders, and program practitioners, that potential for effectiveness can make an evidence‐based program more attractive than an unproven program. However, we can only assume that a program will continue to have those effects if it is implemented according to the original program design. Staying true to the original program design is referred to as program fidelity. Unfortunately, true program fidelity is not easily achieved in practice. Practitioners often change or adapt evidence‐based programs as they implement them, whether intentionally or not.

New Resource added - Mental Health Services Consumer and Carer Participation Review September 2009

This report provides recommendations in relation to how mental health services will build and implement a consumer and carer participation model in conjunction with consumers and carers. This, we envisage, will ensure a responsive, inclusive and integrated participation model throughout Tasmania.

New Resource added - Children of Parents with a Mental Illness (COPMI) Framework for Mental Health Services

SummaryThe NSW Children of Parents with a Mental Illness (COPMI) Framework for Mental Health Services aims to:1) Foster the continuing development of Area Mental Health Services for children of parents with a mental illness and their families; and2) Assist Area Mental Health Services in the ongoing development of collaborative approaches with key partners and agencies working with children and their families.This document applies to: Area Health Services/Chief Executive Governed Statutory Health Corporation, Board Governed Statutory Health Corporations, Affiliated Health Organisations - Non Declared, Affiliated Health Organisations - Declared, Community Health Centres, Public Health Units, Public Hospitals

New Resource added - Every child every chance: A strategic framework for family services

This new strategic framework for the Department of Human Services-funded Family Services program is an opportunity for a contemporary approach to responding to vulnerable and at-risk children and their families. This framework is consistent with the significant reform agenda that led to new policy and legislation in 2005. This policy is outlined in the white paper: Protecting children-the next steps (July 2005).

New Resource added - Mental Health Recovery Philosophy Into Practice - A workforce development guide

This guide has been developed in response to a sector-wide need for a coordinated approach to workforce development within a recovery framework. This is becoming increasingly necessary as demand for the sector and its services grow, and community mental health staff and managers look for better ways to engage with, support, and empower consumers. The guide is structured according to the nine key workforce pathways that organisations must consider in working towards becoming, or sustaining, a socially inclusive, recovery-oriented organisation. These include: organisational culture and values, effective partnerships, knowledge management, recruitment and retention, consumer and carer workers, cultural competence, professional development, supervision and mentoring, evaluation and performance management. This guide articulates the components of effective recovery-based practice; it brings the language of 'recovery' to practical application. It promotes a recovery-oriented framework in which service users, carers, volunteers and employees are all supported to negotiate their individual paths; to contribute and achieve goals in an environment of respect and compassion.

New Resource added - Mental Health Services Strategic Plan 2006-2011: Partners...towards recovery

The reform of mental health services outlined in this strategic plan rely fundamentally on partnerships and the participation of the broader community. Its success depends on MHS and its staff listening to consumers, their families and carers, and our other partners, and working closely with them to build a service framework that we are all confident in, and which delivers the necessary services to all Tasmanians. A central component of our plan for the future is a model of care for mental health that is centred on consumers, promotes their recovery, and is provided equitably and efficiently. We have built our model of care on best practice based on evidence, using the full range of experience and expertise within our own organisation, and across Australia and the world" (from p.3).

New Resource added - Consumer and Carer Participation Framework

This Framework sets the direction for participation in Tasmanian Mental Health Services from 2006-07 onwards. It seeks to unite the efforts of the many people in our community who care about mental health and wish to promote both recovery from mental illness and improved wellbeing. An implementation plan will be developed to detail the actions that will be taken to turn the Framework into a practical and effective working system.The term 'Framework' encompasses the open-minded and flexible approach that has guided both the process of development and the structure and content of the finalised document. The Consumer and Carer Participation Framework reflects the cooperative goodwill that enabled the people involved in its development to build a set of action-oriented concepts relevant to our local context. This structure allows us to take logical steps towards progress, while remaining able to adapt to changes in our local circumstances and be responsive to what we learn along the way. Underpinning this Framework is the belief that participation in mental health services by consumers brings benefits to them and to the services involved. The evidence for this is mounting, as it is for the cost-effectiveness of participation. In addition, research is beginning to show that the involvement of family members and other carers can reduce the frequency and severity of episodes of mental illness for individual consumers, as well as improve the quality of life for everyone in the family. So it makes even more sense to work towards creating a culture of inclusion and collaboration among consumers, carers and service providers to achieve their common aims.

New Resource added - Building on the Strengths of Australian Males: National Male Health Policy

The Policy provides a framework for improving the health of all males and achieving equal health outcomes for population groups of males at risk of poor health. It provides practical suggestions for action designed to guide directions into the new decade especially in areas where we know we can make a difference in improving the health of Australian males, and those with the poorest health. The National Male Health Policy - Building on the Strengths of Australian Males, has nine supporting documents providing in-depth analysis of some of the issues raised in the Policy. It also has some practical suggestions for males about what they can do to improve their own health, and some guiding principles that can be used when developing programs and policies affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander males.Supporting documents: - Social Determinants and Key Actions Supporting Male Health - Healthy Minds - Healthy Routines - Healthy Reproductive Behaviours - Healthy Limits - Healthy Workers - Access to Health Services - Action Males Can Take Now - National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Males Health Framework Revised Guiding Principles

New Resource added - Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework - For Children from Birth to Eight Years

A draft of the VEYLDF has been developed which builds out of the national Early Years Learning Framework (0-5) and is aligned with the Victorian Essential Learning Standards in the first years of school and includes transition to school. This draft is available for consultation, trail and validation from August to October 2009. The Victorian Framework was released in November 2009 for implementation in early years services and schools in 2010.

New Resource added - The National Early Childhood Development Strategy - Investing in the Early Years

On 2 July 2009, the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) endorsed the National Early Childhood Development Strategy- Investing in the Early Years. In jointly developing the Strategy, the Australian, state and territory governments have signalled their intention to take a leadership role in early childhood development now and into the future. The Strategy will help all levels of government to build a more effective and better coordinated national early childhood development system to support the diverse needs of Australian children and their families. It covers children from before birth to eight years and aims to improve the health, safety, early learning and wellbeing of all children and better support disadvantaged children to reduce inequalities. The Strategy provides the road map for action and for engaging effective partnerships across and between governments, with the non-government sector, and with families around the needs of young children. The Strategy proposes six priority areas for reform to be further developed for COAG in 2010, recognising the different starting points of states and territories and as resources allow: * Strengthen universal maternal, child and family health services * Support for vulnerable children * Engaging parents and the community in understanding the importance of ECD * Improve early childhood infrastructure * Strengthen the workforce across ECD and family support services, and * Build better information and a solid evidence base. The Strategy represents the start of an ongoing process of engagement with families, the early childhood sector and other stakeholders about achieving a shared vision for Australia?s children. This process will continue in the short term through more detailed consultations on the development of specific reforms in priority areas by 2010, and over the longer term to 2020 to develop new actions and reshape reform directions as conditions change and new priorities emerge.

New Resource added - National Action Plan for Promotion, Prevention and Early Intervention for Mental Health 2000

This publication outlines a strategic framework and plan for action to address the promotion, prevention and early intervention priorities and outcomes outlined in the Second National Mental Health Plan

New Resource added - Strategic Framework for Action: 2005 - 2010. Opening our eyes to depression across Australia

A summary of the priorities and opportunities for the five years 2005-2010 includes: - developing strategic pathways and targeted approaches to specific areas of depression and anxiety prevention in the workplace, among the elderly, in families and young people, Indigenous people, in post natal mothers and in regional and rural Australia, and partnering with agencies and organisations dealing with chronic disease, heart disease, diabetes, cancer and asthma. - Identify skills needed to cope with adversity, build resilience and provide families, schools, workplaces and community groups with the support they need to respond to depression and related disorders, i.e. what works, when and why. - Large community-based and practical prevention programs to be implemented focusing on families, teenage school children, younger children with anxiety and older Australians, (e.g. Depression prevention in ageing project). - beyondblue's Ybblue national media campaign, encouraging young people to understand depression and anxiety disorders, and seek help, must continue to be a key element of beyondblue's public awareness focus, linking with established youth support agencies, e.g. Kids Help Line, ReachOut!, Life Line and Moodgym. - Innovative primary care programs and multidisciplinary partnerships for better management of depression, anxiety, social and emotional wellbeing among Indigenous people to be expanded. - Furthering key partnerships with Australia's rural doctors and regional health services in development of regional and rural depression prevention strategy. - Continue to grow the systemic advocacy and information-sharing role of blueVoices, the national consumer and carer network of over 9000 members that provides a valuable voice for people whose lives have been affected by depression, anxiety and related disorders. - Increase support for training programs in mental health for general practitioners and new services provided by clinical psychologists and other non-medical mental health specialists. - More research and partnerships need to be developed or expanded where existing such as a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Heart Foundation and with other health organisations, Diabetes Australia, for example to demonstrate and address chronic illness comorbidity links with depression. - Expansion of beyondblue-supported research and publication in national and international medical journals to provide further evidence-based information that can lead to better health outcomes. - Disseminate widely outcomes, and assist implementation of recommendations of current depression prevention research, for example the national Postnatal Depression project outcomes including screening of pregnant women as national standard and quality practice intervention. - Focus on the relationship between depression, anxiety and drug and alcohol misuse.

New Resource added - Making progress: the health, development and wellbeing of Australia's children and young people

This report delivers the latest and most reliable information on how, as a nation, we are faring according to key statistical indicators of child and youth health, development and wellbeing. The report covers children and young people aged 0-19 years, and includes indicators for the entire 0-19 year age range as well as indicators for three different stages of development: 1) infancy and early childhood; 2) school age childhood; and 3) adolescence. Information is presented on important issues such as mental health, disability, risk factors for chronic disease, mortality, education, homelessness, crime, jobless families and family economic situation. Particular attention is given to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and youth, and to how Australia compares internationally. This is an essential resource for policy makers, researchers, practitioners and anyone interested in the progress of Australia's children and youth.

New Resource added - NSW Children of Parents with a Mental Illness (COPMI) Framework for Mental Health Services

The NSW Children of Parents with a Mental Illness (COPMI) Framework for Mental Health Services (NSW Department of Health) aims to: 1) Foster the continuing development of Area Mental Health Services for children of parents with a mental illness and their families; and 2) Assist Area Mental Health Services in the ongoing development of collaborative approaches with key partners and agencies working with children and their families.

New Resource added - Depression in the Family: A Video

The podcast talks about a family's experience with depression and what helped them to cope with the situation.

New Resource added - International Young Carer Programs Directory

A resource for individuals and organisations looking for innovative ways to support young carers who have a parent with a mental illness and to facilitate the collaboration between agencies state wide, nationally and internationally.

New Resource added - Who are Young Carers?

YouTube presentation developed by a young carer.

New Resource added - Wishing Wellness: A workbook for children of parents with mental illness

For children who have a parent with severe, incapacitating disorders like psychosis, suicidal depression, extreme anxiety or those undergoing the most intensive forms of treatment, this workbook can help children process their thoughts, feelings, and experiences while learning more about their parent's illness. Useful for teachers and parents. Therapist?s Resource Guide also available. [US]

New Resource added - The Coloured Kit

The Coloured Kit (is a resource that provides support and information for young people and their families, where a parent has a mental illness/dual diagnosis. The Kit was designed to support and empower young people and their families and was produced as collaboration between a group of experienced young people, the Youth Coalition and the Children of Parents with a Mental Illness Project, Mental Health ACT. [Australia]

New Resource added - Raising Children

Produced by the Australian Government, this parenting website has comprehensive, practical, expert, information and activities for parents and workers about health and development of children 0 to 8 years. [Australia]

New Resource added - Handle With Care: A workbook about mental illness for 8-12 year olds.

A workbook about mental illness for 8-12 year olds. Contains information and activities to help you understand more about mental illness, ways to take care of yourself and your feelings.

New Resource added - Supporting Our Family Kit, The

This Supporting Our Family Kit has been put together with the aim of encouraging discussion of mental illness with your child/children and maintaining the family unit. Includes child's care plan, sample letter for school, consumer/ family checklist, resource list.

New Resource added - To Be Delighted In! What we want and need: a baby's view

book for parents about what a baby needs. Written from the baby's perspective, this book details the developmental stages of babies in their first 6 months. It describes their needs and wants and their methods of signalling or communicating these to their parents/carers.

New Resource added - Caring around the clock

A booklet with information and support for young people. [UK]

New Resource added - Baby Care Plan

Developed by COPMI national initiative the care plan is for parents of an infant. [Australia]

New Resource added - Families that Have Alcohol and Mental Health Problems: A template for partnership working

Social Care Institute for Excellence, UK, 2003. SCIE provides a guide for agencies to use when developing initiatives with other agencies that provide collaborative partnerships to work with families. [UK]

New Resource added - Reachout

is a web-based service that inspires young people to help themselves through tough times. The aim of the service is to improve young people?s mental health and well being by providing support information and referrals. [Australia]

New Resource added - Child and Youth Health (SA)

The site provides a wealth of news and practical health information for parents, carers and young people. [Australia]

New Resource added - Supporting Families with Parental Mental Illness or Problematic Substance Use

This Canadian website includes lists of resources for parents, children and young people, links to resources for workers, 'Tip Sheets', Ulysses Agreement resources, research reports and a 'Best Practice Guide for working with Children of Parents with Mental Illness (COPMI) and their families' - http://www.parentalmentalillness.org/Best_Practices.html Funded by the Vancouver Coastal Health Authority Child & Youth Mental Health Services (CYMHS) in Vancouver Community.

New Resource added - Mind

Mind is a UK mental health charity that campaigns for people's rights, challenges poor practice in mental health and informs and support thousands of people on a daily basis. This website has a very useful 'Information' section with a range of booklets and factsheets on a variety of topics (e.g. How to parent when you're in a crisis, How to cope with hospital admission, How to cope with panic attacks, Making sense of antipsychotics, Making sense of antidepressants).

New Resource added - The Mental Health Foundation

Mental Health Foundation - Parents with mental health problems. This UK based organisation provides a range of useful podcasts, information sheets and reports.

New Resource added - Parental Mental Health and Child Welfare Network

This is a UK-based national network for social care and health workers who work with parents with a mental health problem or their children, offering a wealth of information about local and national policies, services, publications and events. Go to the Resources page for an extensive listing of resources including ?Parental Mental Health Problems: messages from research, policy and practice? and ?Making time to talk?.

New Resource added - The Fatherhood Institute

The Fatherhood Institute collates and publishes international research on fathers, fatherhood and different approaches to engaging with fathers by public services and employers. [UK]

New Resource added - National Schizophrenia Fellowship (NSF) - Scotland

The National Schizophrenia Fellowship has produced three booklets to break down the barriers to communication for families in this situation: ?It's About You Too!?, (for children aged 8-10), ?Need to Know? (for young people aged 11-14), ?Making Time to Talk? (advice for parents). All three booklets are designed either to be read by family members or used as a communication tool by professionals who work with families and include an explanation of what mental illness is, what other common mental health terms mean and how mental illness can affect people. All three booklets focus on the importance of open and honest communications in promoting understanding and combating stigma. [UK]

New Resource added - It's About You Too!

This booklet for children (aged 8-10) has been produced by The National Schizophrenia Fellowship and is designed either to be read by family members or used as a communication tool by professionals who work with families and include an explanation of what mental illness is, what other common mental health terms mean and how mental illness can affect people.

New Resource added - Need to Know

This booklet for children (aged 11-14) has been produced by The National Schizophrenia Fellowship and is designed either to be read by family members or used as a communication tool by professionals who work with families and include an explanation of what mental illness is, what other common mental health terms mean and how mental illness can affect people.

New Resource added - Making Time to Talk

Produced by The National Schizophrenia Fellowship, this booklet for parents provides advice and guidance on how to tell children in their family about their mental illness and how to manage their child?s response.

New Resource added - Minds, Myths and Me

A ?fact pack? for young carers who live with someone with a mental illness. This A5 booklet was designed and produced by four young carers, using their own personal experiences to help others in the same situation. Includes a ?Disorders and Illnesses? section. For ages 12+, produced by Gloucestershire Young Carers (2006). [UK] (13.23MB).

New Resource added - The Flying Dream

Written for children of parents with dual diagnosis but can be used for working with parents to help them understand their children's needs and identify what they can do differently to assist their children, building their motivation to change, seek assistance etc. and empowering to do what they feel they can do. This publication was developed by the NSW Department of Community Services (DoCS) through the National Illicit Drug Strategy. Sponsored by the Australian Government Department of Family and Community Services. [Australia] (2.15MB).

New Resource added - Mental Illness In Your Family? A YoungMinds booklet

Anyone who has a family member suffering from mental illness will find this booklet helpful. It explains what mental illness is, the different kinds of mental illnesses and their symptoms. It also looks at the causes of mental illness and the impact that it has on other family members. [UK] (712.90KB).

New Resource added - Think child, think family: How adult specialist services can support children at-risk of abuse and neglect.

Article on how adult specialist services can support children at risk of abuse and neglect. [Australia]

New Resource added - About Mental Illness: A booklet for 13-16 year olds.

A booklet for 13-16 year olds.

New Resource added - Child's Care Plan

The Child's Care Plan aims to help parents if they become unwell and are temporarily unable to care for their children.

New Resource added - Promoting Positive Mental Health In Families: Parenting, children and mental health, a resource kit for workers and families

The Resource Kit is designed to support workers and families around issues relating to the effects of mental illness on parenting, the needs of children, child protection issues and promoting positive mental health in families. Central Coast Mental Health Service, NSW [Australia]

New Resource added - Parents in Hospital: How mental health services can best promote family contact when a parent is in hospital

A stay in hospital can represent a significant crisis, not just in terms of a parent's individual mental health but of family life overall, and may have long term repercussions beyond the period of hospitalisation itself. The findings of this Barnardo?s report suggest that this can be re-framed as an opportunity for services to provide more holistic care.

New Program added - The Apple of My Eye (supporting parenting in families with a mental health problem)

The program is a part of an ambulatory service for families dealing with a mental health problem of one of its members. The program is located at a centre for mental health in Bear Sheba, Israel. The program is called 'The Apple of My Eye' and focuses on enriching and aiding parenthood in the families joining the program. A third parents group will become available shortly. The project is psychoeducational in its orientation.

New Resource added - Living with Personality Disorder - Supporting Better Parenting.

The full report from this thought provoking and interactive study day in London and the one that preceded it in Leeds (March 2009). Packed with lively and informative write-ups from the sessions that comprised these events, this report is a useful tool for anyone working and/or living in the world of personality disorders who would like to increase their understanding of these complex disorders and ways of working to support people both as parents, with what is ?no longer a diagnosis of exclusion?, and as children living with a parent with PD.

New Program added - Relationships Australia Online Counselling

Relationships Australia offers a service where you can chat privately and securely about family or relationship issues with an online counsellor.

New Resource added - Ulysses Agreement

A Ulysses Agreement is a voluntary process, a plan that outlines to others what they should and should not do to support the children and the parent/s. It also allows the parent to plan how their children will be cared for should they relapse and be temporally unable to care for their children. The wellness part of the plan uses components of the Wellness Recovery Plan (WRAP) as designed by Mary Ellen Copeland. A wellness plan outlines what a person does everyday to be the healthiest they can be. The Ulysses Agreement is designed so that parents with the mental health concern can build a support team (professional & non-professional) that will meet the family's needs during times of struggle therefore meeting the safety needs of children. This means that it reduces the need for child welfare organisation to become involved with the family. Ulysses Agreement can be designed for children, youth and adult needs as well. This particular design meets parent?s needs. This document is meant to be a guide. A good Ulysses Agreement is always unique to the person developing it. Feel free to adapt and change it as you need.

New Program added - Women and Children's Program

(Formerly Charmian Clift Cottages) The Cottages offer stable supported accommodation for homeless women living with a mental illness and their dependant children. The facility also provides information, advocacy and referrals. Ongoing support is provided for ex-residents and their children once they move into the broader community. Aims of the project: * To provide safe and secure accommodation * To enable women with mental health issues to become more independent * To help them develop their living and parenting skills * To enable them to become more aware of their illnesses and help prevent relapses * To provide access to mainstream support for women with mental health issues and their children * To promote a safe and stable home life * To advocate on behalf of women with mental health issues and their children * To provide a safe environment for mothers and their children * To strengthen relationships between mothers and children * To enhance children's development by providing activities that meet their developmental needs * To provide opportunities for mothers to gain greater understanding of their children's communication and developmental needs * To provide age appropriate activities that enhance the development of children * To instil a sense of hope, self-confidence and self-esteem. A team of support workers with specialist knowledge and skills provide a broad range of educational, vocational and disability support to meet the women's complex needs. They also provide opportunities for mothers to discover their strengths as parents and how they can optimise the development of their children. Individual support planning includes a variety of resources to ensure that clients (women and children) have access to the full range of services they require, using psychosocial programs focused on developing living skills, parenting skills and the maintenance of good health. This project is funded by the NSW Department of Health through the Women's Health Unit, and by the NSW Department of Community Services (DOCS) through the Supported Accommodation Assistance Program (SAAP). The purpose-built facility is maintained by the NSW office of Community Housing.

New Resource added - Mychild Website

The mychild.gov.au website provides information on different types of child care and how to access assistance with the cost of child care. There is a database you can search to locate and access a street view of child care services in your local area. In many cases, you will also be able to find the service's vacancy and fee information. You will also find links to other useful websites about children's health and wellbeing, parenting and family support services.

New Resource added - Mental Health and Well Being Website

The website provides information on the Australian Government's role and contributions to mental health reform activities in Australia.

New Resource added - Attachment Resources Website

Attachment Resources is a group of like minded professionals, parents and community members interested in promoting the future mental health of the community by encouraging attachment based parenting methods and therapeutic options.

New Resource added - Australian Breastfeeding Association Website

The Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) is an organisation of people interested in the promotion and protection of breastfeeding. Amongst these are breastfeeding women and their partners and health professionals such as doctors, lactation consultants and midwives. ABA was founded in Melbourne, Victoria in 1964 (as the Nursing Mothers' Association), with the primary aim of giving mother-to-mother support to breastfeeding women. The Association is supported by health authorities and specialists in infant and child health and nutrition, including a panel of distinguished honorary advisers. ABA is recognised internationally as a source of accurate information about breastfeeding management and research. With the support of the Lactation Resource Centre (LRC), ABA provides information to its counsellors and educates the wider community, from preschools to universities and professional organisations. ABA's voluntary breastfeeding counsellors are experienced mothers who have completed an intensive training programme and have successfully breastfed their own children. They are bound by a code of ethics and offer their support over the telephone, in person and through a wide range of literature. Since its inception over 200,000 people have been members of ABA and thousands more have used the telephone counselling services, literature and community education opportunities. ABA is one of the largest non-profit self-help groups in Australia.

New Program added - KOPING & Chillin' - Bundaberg

KOPING is for adolescents aged 12-18 years. Please contact IMPACT for the program dates. Chillin' runs a social support afternoon every Thursday for adolescents aged 11-17 years. Chillin' features activities around mental health, healthy living, early intervention and prevention and social activities (eg football, swimming, beach, DVDs, games, art and music). Transport is available (collected from school and then dropped off at home).

New Program added - COPMI Consultation Liaison Service

The Consultation Liaison Service focuses on COPMI issues for community adult mental health clients, mental health unit clients and their families and clinicians. The Consultation Liaisn Service offers a home visiting service with case managers to provide a family focus on COPMI issues, identifies areas of need, suggests support services, introduces and facilitates discussion of mental illness by parents and children in families.

New Program added - Individual Advocacy Program

MALSSA Inc provides advocacy to individuals with disability, including psychiatric disability. Advocacy works to represent clients wishing to gain rights and entitlements, resolve discrimination and provide information to help clients make informed decisions. Our advocates also assist carers where advocacy can assist the carer's role in providing care to a person with a disability.

New Program added - Kids Space

Based on the Kidz Club - a supportive and educative group for COPMI aged 8-12 years that is held over two days in the school holidays. The group provides information (in a fun format) on mental illness and coping strategies. Each group consists of a maximum of eight children. Transport, food and activities are all provided for free.

New Resource added - The Ability to Cope: Building resilience in yourself and your child

Family Connections is a program of Children's Hospital Boston. The Family Connections project was launched in 2003 as an initiative to support early childhood programs in their mental health outreach to families facing adversities, particularly parental depression. Through an Innovation and Improvement Grant from the US Department of Health and Human Services Office of Head Start, as well as from key community partners, Family Connections has designed and implemented an innovative preventive intervention model in 10 Head Start and Early Head Start Centers in the Boston area. In our partnerships, we have provided training, mental health consultation, classroom interventions, and ongoing supervision to staff. The Family Connections materials provide staff with information, learning opportunities, and a description of the crucial ways programs can better understand and respond to the needs of children and families. These resources are designed to promote the professional skills of Self Reflection, Self-Care, and Perspective Taking.

New Resource added - Parenting through tough times: Coping with depression

New Resource added - Self reflection in parenting: Help for getting through stressful times

New Program added - MI Helpline Victoria

MI Helpline is a telephone service providing information, referrals and support to people with mental illness, their family and friends across Victoria. MI Helpline is a unique peer-based service staffed by trained volunteers who have an experience of mental illness either directly themselves or via a family member or close friend. This direct experience along with training and supervision means that callers are able to speak with people who have a deeper understanding of mental illness and what it is like to navigate the mental health system in Victoria.

New Program added - Paying Attention to Self (PATS) Sydney

A peer support group for young people aged 13-18 years who have a parent with mental health issues. A group is facilitated by Youth Workers, Counsellors and Psychologists from KYDS (Ku-ring-gai Youth Development Service) and Hornsby CAFT (Child, Adolescent and Family Team). PATS aims to give young people the opportunity to learn more about mental health, explore ways of coping and meet other teenagers who share similar experiences. The group will run for eight weeks, is free of charge and will run between 4.30pm and 6.00pm on Thursdays. The group will be held at Ku-ring-gai Youth Development Service, 265 Pacific Highway, Lindfield. Transport costs can be refunded. The aim of the PATS Program is to increase young people's knowledge of mental health and mental illness, to improve their help seeking behaviour and coping strategies and to improve their sense of connection to their peers, family and community. Group topics will include: * Understanding their parent's illness. * Improving their relationship with their parent. * Communication and problem solving skills. * Dealing with the stigma associated with mental health. * Strategies to cope with their parent's condition and to stay mentally healthy themselves. The focus is on healthy thinking and healthy coping strategies. Group activities include discussion, games role-plays, art and craft, guest speakers and social outings.

New Program added - Camp Kookaburra

A support program for children 8-16 years who live in a family affected by mental illness. We provide camps and other activities that are safe, positive, healthy and fun. Annually we offer three weekend camps for different age groups, school holiday activities, dinners for the teenagers, a family picnic day and regular newsletters. Referrals are accepted from the southern Sydney, eastern Sydney and Illawarra area (same as SESIAHS).

New Program added - Family Inclusion Network - Waterloo (Sydney), Gosford and North Parramatta

FIN-NSW is a family support, advice and advocacy service. It promotes family inclusive child protection practice.

New Resource added - Council for the Care of Children

Council for the Care of Children is an organisation working to make sure children and young people in South Australia are safe and have a good start in life. We are based in Adelaide. Ten of the organisation's members are leaders from the community, including an Aboriginal leader and two young people who have spent time in out of home care. The Minister for Families and Communities names the state government departments to be on the Council and the heads of those departments also sit on the Council. Vision We speak up for South Australian children to make sure that they are cherished, nurtured and respected. We want South Australia to be a child-friendly state that acknowledges childrens' rights and seeks to ensure that children are: safe, happy, healthy, confident and secure, supported to learn and grow. Includes a section 'For Children & Young People'. In this section children and young people can look in: - The Shed - find out what's happening in your backyard. Australian children talk about what's important to them, and we let you know about events for children and young people. - Know Your Rights Game - play this fun game about childrens' rights to see how well you know your rights. Get your friends, parents, teachers and other young people and adults to play the game too! - The Help and Support page has links to places that may be able to help children and young people.

New Resource added - Family Connections

New Resource added - The Ulysses Agreement

The Ulysses Agreement is a non-legal document that serves as a proactive plan. It might also be referred to as a Care, Treatment and Personal Management Plan. It allows for a parent with a mental illness to prepare some information for sharing and to make some decisions in advance of going through a period of incapacitation due to their mental illness. The plan can outline provisions for themselves, their family and the care of their children.

New Resource added - Australian Child & Adolescent Trauma, Loss & Grief Network Website

The website of the Australian Child and Adolescent Trauma, Loss and Grief Network (ACATLGN) is for everyone involved in the care of children / youth and interested in the potential impact of trauma, loss and grief experiences. The website contains key resources covering the spectrum of trauma, loss and grief experiences for children and adolescents. You can become a member of the network for free and this offers the opportunity for professionals to network with others in this area as well as receive regular newsletters and updates.

New Program added - Centacare NENW - SMILES program 8-12 yrs

SMILES Program: Simplifying Mental Illness + Life Enhancement Skills. TARGET GROUP: Children aged 8-12 yrs old who have a parent or sibling experiencing a mental health problem (specifically schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression or anxiety). PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: 3 day program (9am-3pm)usually delivered during the school holiday period or a 6 week program (1 day a week, 4pm-6.30pm) delivered in conjunction with health services or appropriate non-government organisations. Minimum 8, maximum 10 participants. Resources are included as part of the program. AIMS: To provide age-appropriate education about mental illness and life skills; to improve capacity to cope more effectively and increase resilience; to improve self-expression and creativity; to increase self-esteem and reduce feelings of isolation. CONTENTS: Education about mental illness; communication exercises; problem solving; art work; music; interactive and relaxation exercises; peer support. BACKGROUND: Developed in 1997 by Erica Pitman as a result of the increasing recognition that children in families affected by mental illness are a population 'at risk' for developing their own mental health problems. Erica has an Advanced Diploma of Applied Social Science,Certificate IV Workplace Training, Funeral Celebrant Training, Certificates of Management, is a clinically registered counsellor with the NSW Counsellors and Psychotherapists Association Inc (CMCAPA) and a registered member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia Inc (RMPACFA) and a registered supervisor of the Australian Counselling Association. Erica's professional work is enhanced by her own experience as the sibling of her deceased brother who struggled with epilepsy and childhood schizophrenia.

GEMS (Edition 8) - Ulysses Agreements in Supporting Families Affected by Parental Mental Illness

New edition of GEMS - Edition 8 (February 2010) Ulysses Agreements in Supporting Families Affected by Parental Mental Illness Description: This edition of the GEMS presents research regarding Ulysses Agreements (sometimes referred to as Advance Care Plans, Care Plans, Crisis Plans or Advanced Directives) defined as a plan collaboratively developed by a family and relevant mental health professionals, whereby decisions are made regarding the care of children, for when the parent becomes unwell as a result of their illness (Authored by Neil Mercer & Rob Lees).

New Program added - Eastern Region CHAMPS Programs

CHAMPS programs are for children in families where a parent has a mental illness. The Eastern Health FaPMI Initiative coordinates a limited number of direct programs for families which are run in partnership with other organisations. CHAMPS afterschool, school holiday and camps are run in the Eastern Region for children in families where a parent has a mental illness. These time limited programs aim to give children age appropriate information about mental illness, to meet other children who may be in the same situation and to learn about healthy coping strategies These programs are not an end in themselves but compliment the support provided to the family by those who work with Families where a Parent has a Mental Illness. The after school program is a structured 8 week program for 8-12yr old children during school term in different venues in the Eastern Metropolitan Region. The school holiday program is about 4 day program run for families in different venues in the Eastern Metropolitan Region. Kids club - a graduates group for families whose children have attended after school programs. Camps are a 2 night 3 day program for a specific age range and are on an invitation basis for children who have attended other programs. Supported Playgroup for parents with a mental illness and their young (0-5 year old) children. Programs availability change from term to term. See website for referral forms and current information Who can refer to CHAMPS programs? Workers (health/family support/school) working with families where a parent has a mental illness can refer to the CHAMPS programs. As the CHAMPS programs are time limited, there is a need for the referrer to be able to offer ongoing support to the family before and after the CHAMPS program. Programs are free due to the generous sponsorships by organisations such as Bendigo Bank and Croydon Rotary.

New Resource added - Worry Tree, The

Juliet's a worrywart, and no wonder! Her little sister, Oaf, follows her around taking notes and singing 'The Irritating Song' all day long. Her parents are always arguing about Dad's junk. Nana's so tired of craft lessons that she starts barbecuing things in the middle of the night. And Juliet's friends, Lindsay and Gemma, are competing to see which of them is Juliet's best friend. Juliet can't fit in any more worries! But then she makes a remarkable discovery. Behind the wallpaper in her new bedroom, Juliet uncovers an old painting of a very special tree. Nana remembers it well. It's the Worry Tree, and with the help of a duck called Delia and the other Worry Tree animals, Juliet just might be able to solve some of life's big problems. Winner of the Australian Family Therapists Award for Children's Literature 2008 and shortlisted for the Queensland Premier's Literary Award for Best Children's Book, the 2008 Adelaide Festival Award for Children's Literature and the Australian Children's Peace Literature Prize 2007

New Program added - COPMI Coordinator, South Eastern Sydney Illawarra Health Service (Northern Network)

Services offered: - Face to face or over the phone consultation regarding COPMI cases for staff (from both, government and non-government organisations) - Individual and group supervision - Opportunity to join clinicians for assessments, case planning and discharge meetings where COPMI perspective is needed - Staff education training (including Crossing Bridges) and professional development opportunities (those will be tailored to the specific needs of the service within which the training is to be provided) - Advice and support regarding assessing needs of children and undertaking parental capacity assessments - Advice and support regarding DoCS referrals for COPMI cases - Resourcing and supporting the services by creating a resource database. The database will include a list of services available to support families and children with specific area of need (e.g. respite, parenting groups, peer support groups etc) as well as a list of useful phone numbers, websites and literature (to be completed by the end of April 2010) - Collaborative work with services to review and improve their organisational structures to become more family-focused (e.g. reviewing existing guidelines and policies) - Information leaflets for parents and children around COPMI issues (e.g. Talking to Children about Mental Health Difficulties) Other services to be set up: - Supported playgroup for parents with mental illness and their children - Support and education groups for parents

New Program added - e-hub Online Health Services and Research (National)

e-hub currently has five programs: All our programs are anonymous, available 24/7 and free of charge to consumers: - BluePages: www.bluepages.anu.edu.au Comprehensive, evidence-based information about depression and its treatment (including medical, psychological and alternative therapies). BluePages also includes interactive depression and anxiety quizzes, descriptions of the experience and symptoms of depression, a relaxation download, and extensive resources for help. Participation is free and anonymous. - BlueBoard: www.blueboard.anu.edu.au Online support group for people affected by depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders. It aims to destigmatise mental disorders, and to provide support, hope and opportunities for sufferers and carers to share successful coping strategies. The group is run as a moderated bulletin board with strict protocols to enhance safety. Participation is free and anonymous. - MoodGYM: www.moodgym.anu.edu.au A popular interactive program that teaches cognitive-behaviour therapy skills for preventing and coping with depression. MoodGYM has been extensively researched and its effectiveness has been demonstrated in randomised controlled trials. Participation is free and anonymous. - e-couch: www.ecouch.anu.edu.au e-hub?s latest interactive self-help program includes modules for social anxiety, generalised anxiety and depression. It provides self-help training drawn from cognitive, behavioural and interpersonal therapies as well as relaxation and exercise. Participation is free and anonymous. Modules for panic disorder, bereavement and relationship breakdown will be deployed in 2010. - Beacon: www.beacon.anu.edu.au Provides consumers and professionals with information about e-health online applications for mental health and physical health disorders. Websites throughout the world are reviewed and ranked by a panel of health experts. Consumers can also submit rankings and comments. Participation is free and anonymous.

New Resource added - The SANE CD-ROM Guide to Psychosis

Complete set of SANE guides, easy-to-read booklets on mental illness and related issues written in everyday language. Includes 16 booklets on bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, consumers, families, children & young people, medication and other treatments, healthy living, staying alive, drugs, reducing stigma, mental illness in the workplace, getting back to work and quitting smoking. Designed specifically for people with mental illness and their families.

New Program added - KOPING Program - Bundaberg

KOPING for adolescents 12-18 years - contact Janelle or Bob for program dates. Chillin' - run every Thursday afternoon for adolescents aged 11-17 years - social support afternoon. Activities around mental health and healthy living, early intervention and prevention, social activities like football, swimming, beach, dvd, games, art and music. Transport available for pick up from school and taking home.

New Resource added - Mia's Dad is Strange

This illustrated book (along with 'Mark's Mum is Depressed) for children and families, has been produced by the National Family Association Promoting Mental Health in Tampere, Finland in 2003. They were both developed for children under 12 years of age with the intention of explaining the effects of a parent's psychosis (Mia) and depression (Mark) on a child's everyday life. The books cost 5 Euro each (plus postage) and can be ordered by emailing 'The National Family Association from Promoting Mental Health in Tampere' - see English page on their website for details.

New Program added - Little Munchkin's Supported Playgroup for COPMI, Victoria

A supported playgroup for children of parents with mental illness. A weekly play-based program that engages parents in play with their infant/pre-school children, and addresses parental attachment and bonding through observation of other parents and playgroup facilitator. Parents help with setting up equipment, welcoming other new families, are included in planning playgroup activities, interact with other parents and children and contribute to content of playgroup newsletter and fund-raising.

New Program added - Young Carers Intiitative New England

GOAL To enhance resilience in 14-24 year olds who are the children of parents with a mental illness being case managed by Tamworth Community Mental Health Team or inpatients at Banksia Mental Health Unit. OBJECTIVES - Provide young people with a resource pack to enhance resilience and coping strategies by using positive psychology techniques. - Develop a local social networking group on Facebook providing young people a forum to develop peer supports and access to information on mental illness. - Evaluate effectiveness of resource pack and Facebook group as a six month pilot project.

New Resource added - National Children's and Youth Law Centre

The NCYLC is Australia's national community legal centre dedicated to representing the rights and interests of children and young people. The Centre provides advice and information about the law to children and young people and also works with those who support and advocate for children.

COPMI News Update 4 Nov 2009

The latest COPMI News Update has been added to the website

New Resource added - Early Childhood Newletter 'Snippets'

Newsletter 'Snippets' for inclusion in early childhood centre's or service's newletters or notices.

New Resource added - Just Being Me

Produced in conjunction with MindMatters, this book is a package of ideas for middle schools teachers using Helicopter Man and/or Lockie Leonard, Legend as class texts and who are interested in the following potential outcomes for students: - increasing students? understanding of mental illness and its potential affect on families - reducing the stigma associated with mental illness - increasing students? help seeking behaviours. Ideas provided are mainly for use in English classes with associated links for Health and Physical Education, Society and Environment, Maths, Arts, Science and Design and Technology.

New Resource added - Helping To Piece The Puzzle Together: An Early Childhood Worker supplement to Piecing the Puzzle Together

An associated resource to assist early childhood workers who work with children and families where a parent has a mental illness or mental health problem. It was produced with input from staff in child care centres and junior primary education.

New Resource added - Piecing The Puzzle Together: Raising young people when mental illness is part of your life

This booklet is for people living with a mental health problem or mental illness, whose children are aged between 2 and 7 years. It?s also for partners, family and friends. It contains helpful ideas about being the best parent you can when you?re not as well as you?d like to be and ways to support your child?s development during their special early years. Produced in consultation with consumers, carers, workers, academics and policy makers.

New Resource added - The Bipolar Bear Family: When a Parent Has Bipolar Disorder

The Bipolar Bear Family is a story about a young cub who struggles to understand his mother's behavior and her subsequent diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder. The story of The Bipolar Bear Family helps children of bipolar parents address such questions as: Is this my fault? Is it contagious? Can I fix it?According to the National Institute for Mental Health, Bipolar Disorder affects more than 2 million American adults. Further, we know that the dynamics of Mental Illness closely mirror the dynamics of alcoholism and addiction in its impact on the family system. By compassionately educating parents and children, the author hopes to make a life-long difference for these courageous families.

COPMI News Update 16 September 2009

The latest news Update has been added to the COPMI website.

COPMI News Update 12 August 2009

The latest News Update has been added to the News section

News Update 17 July 2009

The latest News Update has been added to the COPMI website

New Resource added - Family to Family

Ruah Community Services and COMIC WA have launched a series of booklets called 'Family to Family - Telling it like it is'. This series of booklets was produced by a group of consumers and carers reflecting on their experiences of managing family life and raising children whilst managing the affects of mental illness, in collaboration with Ruah Community Services. There are five booklets in the series: - Our stories - Children and parenting - Families and recovery - Going to hospital - Working things out as a family The booklets can be found on the Ruah website in the 'Latest news' link. To enquire about ordering the booklets email perspectives@ruah.com.au with the word 'booklets' in the subject line.

New Resource added - Family Support Plan

The Family Safety Plan is aimed at minimising the disruption that occurs when a parent is hospitalised. It can be used when the parent or caregiver is well and the information can be shared with those providing support. It specifies emergency care options, custodial restrictions, medical requirements/medications etc, school/daycare contacts, children?s routines and needs etc.

News Update 9 June 2009

The latest News Update has been added to the website.

When a parent is hospitalised: the impact on children.

New edition of GEMS - Edition 5 (May 2009). This edition discusses some of the issues for children when a parent is hospitalised. Recommendations and clinical implications are discussed. Authored by Harry Sivec & Patricia Masterson.

New Program added - FaPMI Eastern Region Melbourne

Champs - primary school aged children 8-12 Types of programs include: - After school programs - 8-10 week during school term, various locations in region - School holiday programs for four days various locations - Kids Club monthly program for 'graduates' of Champs programs. - Champs camps approximately twice a year, depending on funding. All programs utilise a model of peer support and provide opportunities for children to gain a good understanding about mental illness. Referrals: Children and families can self refer or be referred by a worker/case manager/medical practitioner. No cost to attend programs.Assistance with transport, childcare and respite may be arranged. Program information is available at http://www.easternhealth.org.au/champs/ Any other information

News Update 20 May 2009

The latest COPMI News Update has been posted to the COPMI website.

Mental health nurse 'child risk'

BBC News has an article which states that children may be being put at risk because nurses carrying out assessments on mothers with mental illnesses do not have enough training, an expert says. For the full story click on the attached link.

New Program added - AMEND (Assisting Mothers End the Need for Drugs) Child Counselling Program

Child counselling program, & a drug and alcohol, and mental health relapse prevention and management program for pregnant and parenting women. THE AMEND PROGRAM AT A GLANCE... ? is a drug and mental health relapse prevention and management program for pregnant and parenting women. ? is a Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) based relapse prevention program ? also offers Child Counselling - counselling and support to children and young people between ages 5-17 who have been affected by a significant other?s substance use or their own ? offers up to 18 one-hour counselling sessions in the client?s home ? is entirely voluntary and free of charge CHILD COUNSELLING PROGRAM ? Counselling and support to children and young people between ages 5-17 who have been affected by a significant other?s substance use or their own OUR STAFF: Amend offers specialised, confidential counselling from qualified professionals. GEOGRAPHIC REGION: Counselling to women and children is a voluntary, home-based program, offers up to 18 one hour sessions of individual counselling on a weekly or fortnightly basis, available free of charge to clients who live - - within the greater Brisbane region ? from Burpengary to Waterford and from Wynnum West to Ferny Grove, and; - on the Gold Coast, from Runaway Bay to Coolangatta

New Resource added - Depression? Making a Difference Through Community Action: A Planning Guide.

This Guide aims to: - Build awareness and acceptance of the need for a family-focused, community-driven approach - Strengthen the capacity of communities to mobilise around a significant public health issue - Promote the use of state, local and even neighborhood partners - Spur strategic thinking that leads to effective community action and change.

New edition of GEMS - Edition 4 (March 2009) Children of parents with dual diagnosis

This edition discusses some of the issues for both children and parents where a parent has dual diagnosis. The impact on children, possible interventions as well as barriers to service access are also discussed. Authored by Stefan Greunert.

News Update 11 March 2009 now posted

The next in the regular news updates on the COPMI initiative has now been posted.

New Program added - Northern Beaches COPMI Clinician

The Northern Beaches Mental Health Service has one part time COPMI clinician. The clinician works across adult and child and adolescent mental health as well as with other statutory and non government agencies to promote best practice in working with parents who have a mental illness and their children (0-18) The role includes the following activities 1. Clinical interventions for children, parents/families where a parent has a mental illness: This may include issues around parenting capacity, child behaviour, psycho-education and other assessments and interventions depending on need 2.Education and training for mental health and other staff who work with families where a parent has a mental illness. 3. Consultation and resource provision for mental health staff and others. 4. Development of best practice guidelines and clinical pathways to support best practice with COPMI families.

New Program added - Mental Health ACT COPMI Program

The COPMI program aims to promote the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people who have a parent affected by mental illness. The program engages with Mental Health ACT and the broader community.Its key functions include coordination, training, networking,resource promotion,awareness raising and consultation. An intersectoral Steering Committee guides the program. It aims to improve the ACT Community's identification, response and support of COPMI families and enhance the opportunities to develop the community's capacity to provide appropriate and sustainable interventions and programs to address the varying needs of this population.

News Update 18 Feb 2009

The next edition of the regular COPMI News Update has been published on the website.

New Program added - KOPMI Implementation Project: - South Brisbane

The KOPMI Implementation Project is a joint initiative of the Princess Alexandra Hospital, Division of Mental Health and the Mater Child and Youth Mental Health Service (CYMHS). The project is guided by the document 'Principles and Actions for Services and People Working with Children of Parents with a Mental Illness' (AICAFMHA, 2004). Project Aim: To develop a model of service delivery that provides a seamless referral system, clinical pathways and collaborative service provision for families in the PAH/Mater catchment area where a parent is living with a mental illness. Key objectives: - Increase awareness and knowledge of the needs of children, young people and families where a parent is living with a mental illness. - Ensure processes are in place within Mental Health services to support the ongoing, identification and appropriate referral of parents, and COPMI children and young people. - Provide staff education and professional development opportunities to ensure clinical practices are responsive to the needs of children, young people and parents. - Liaison & collaboration between PAH & Mater CYMHS in order to develop programs, information and resources for children, parents and families living with Mental Illness. - Establish/develop working partnerships with local Govt & non-Government agencies to promote and improve the provision of services to families where a parent has a mental illness. Staffing: The project has 2 fulltime equivalent positions, one based at the PAH Adult Mental Health Service and one based at Mater CYMHS. CURRENT PROGRAMS ? Staff training and development program ? regular service - wide orientation and in-service training is provided to staff of the mental health services along with one-off sessions (by request) to teams. Consultation service - KOPMI program staff are available for discussion regarding assistance and support that may need to be provided for COPMI families in our catchment area. We can provide information, resources and referral options to Mental Health and other health, education and community sector workers. KOPMI Implementation project Group Programs: Kidz Club Groups Mater Child and Youth Mental Health Services have a ten year history of coordinating Kidz Club Groups. This group is a supportive and educative group for primary school children who have parents or relatives living with diagnosed mental illness. The Kidz Club groups are currently open to primary children living in the Brisbane area information and referral forms can be requested by contacting The KOPMI Program Coordinator Mater Child and Youth Mental Health Service Mater CYMHS Day Program, Ph. (07) 3163 8650 Email: CYMHS.kidzclub@mater.org.au Website: www.kidsinmind.org.au The group currently consists of an assessment/intake interview, two consecutive one day workshops held during the holidays and a booster group held the following school holidays. See list of Kidz Club groups on this site. The Parent Trail A Creative group for Parents Living with Mental Illness. This is a collaborative group currently co-facilitated by, the KOPMI program co-coordinator at Mater Children and Youth Mental Health Service, and the Hub Coordinator from Kyabra Community Association Inc. The group runs over 10 weeks on Tuesday mornings at Kyabra Community Association, Kyabra Street, Runcorn, South Brisbane. There is free child care available and transport can be arranged. The Parent Trail focus is on art, music and relaxation and uses the metaphor of bush walking to assist parents to focus on safety for both themselves and families. Referrals and inquiries can be made by contacting: Maggie Wilson who is the Kids of Parents with a Mental Illness Program Co-ordinator working with kids at Mater Kids in Mind, CYMHS. She is an art therapist who uses art as a tool for self expression and community capacity building. Contact 9-5 Monday to Friday (07) 3163 8650. Or contact Trish Landsberger who is part of the Child and Youth Services at Kyabra. Trish has years of experience working with young children and over time has gained some insight into how they function in the world. Trish has also spent time studying Creative Arts Therapy and Gestalt Therapy. Contact 9-5 Monday to Friday (07) 3373 9435 Yeronga CYMHS KOPMI Adolescent Community Group Group members need to be attending Yeronga Child and Youth Mental Health Service in order to be able to participate in this group and to have a relative living with mental illness. Referrals and inquiries can be made to Yeronga CYMHS intake officer or the KOPMI Program coordinator (07) 3163 8650. KOPMI Yeronga Community Groups will be held every second and fourth Wed of the month during school terms starting on Wed 25th Feb. The focus of the group in 2009 will include; finding ways of being together that involve creative ideas that cost little money, improving communication skills with friends, family members and educational providers. The Yeronga KOPMI Adolescent Community Group includes a full day school holiday workshop held on the Wednesdays of each holiday. Themes for the day are chosen by the group members and the facilitators. Kidz Club Training A Kidz Club Training Day will be held on Friday August 7th 2009 .Mater CYMHS Training Rooms. Phone (07) 31638650 Email: CYMHS.kidzclub@mater.org.au

COPMI News Updates now active

The new COPMI News Updates section of the website is now active. Regular one page news updates will be added aproximately every three weeks.

New Resource added - Parental substance misuse and children?s entry into Alternative Care in South Australia, 2006 (Research Bulletin)

This study has focused on the extent to which problematic alcohol and substance use are factors influencing children?s entry into care. It has also collected a range of data relating to family circumstances and problems; the impact on children and the services provided in response and outcomes. Findings have implications for both the child protection and drug and alcohol fields, in relation to policy, strategy and service delivery.

New Resource added - SCIE Research Briefing 29: Black and minority ethnic parents with mental health problems and their children

Social Care Institute for Excellence - Briefing 29. This briefing explores the issue of UK black and minority ethnic (BME) parents with mental health problems. Main findings are that BME parents with mental health problems are more likely to experience poverty, discrimination and difficulties in accessing effective and appropriate mental health services, are more commonly reluctant to access mental health services and are more poorly serviced by mental health services.

New Program added - COMIC WA

To inform and educate the community to have a better understanding of what it is like to live with a mental illness. To raise awareness of recovery from mental illness and the things that help or hinder the process of recovery for children parents and families.

New Program added - MIFWA FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAM

Family support program recognises that building family resilience is the foundation for achieving positive outcomes. FSP will - promote and develop resilience and recovery in families. - assist in the prevention of unnecessary hardship through early prevention strategies - assist families to participate in community life.

New Program added - Partnership with Parents in inner Sydney

We work with vulnerable families with under 5s in inner Sydney. These may be parents who have mental health struggles,developmental delays, younger parents, Aboriginal families, families who have drug or alcohol involvement, or have DoCS involvement. We try to build parent's trust, develop relationships and support them in their parenting. We run a baby group at the Redfern Early Childhood Health clinic. We run a fortnightly parenting group. We also run regular Cooking courses. We do some one-to-one family support work.

New Program added - Taz Kidz Clubs, Champs Camps and Parenting Support Programs

Taz Kidz Clubs is an early intervention program designed to prevent mental health difficulties in at risk children and young people. Psycho-social educational groups are run for children aged 8-12 years and adolescents 13-18 years who have a parent with mental illness. Champs Camps is an early intervention program that provides a range of support and activities including peer support, indoor and outdoor activities, as well as psycho-education over a two to three day period. Parenting Support is an early intervention and prevention program designed to provide support, education and enhance the social connectedness of Tasmania parents managing an identified mental illness while parenting.

New GEMS - Edition 3 Dec 2008 : Children of parents with mental illness and their family relationships

This edition discusses principles in working with parents and children together and how to engage children. The authors are Vicki Cowling & Matthew Garrett.

New Program added - Kidz Club - Bundaberg COPMI

Kidz Club is a program designed for children aged 5-12, living with someone with a Mental Illness. This program is designed to offer support for children while learning about mental illness in a safe, non-judgmental environment with a focus on fun and

New Program added - Growing Together School Holiday Program

We offer a FREE school holiday program for school aged children/teenagers who have a parent with a mental illness. We have a waiting list for anyone interested, and groups are run on a needs basis. The groups are run offered to similar ages such as 8 to

New Program added - Family Inclusion Network-NSW - Central Coast Outreach

FIN-NSW was developed to support families/parents who have children in out-of-home care (OOHC)or are at risk of losing their children through the child protection system. Parents with a mental illness make up a substantial proportion of these families. FI

New Program added - Koping Adolescent Peer Group Program - Warwick, and Stanthorpe

The Warwick/Stanthorpe KOPING Adolescent Peer Group Program is based on the same model as the Brisbane program, with some minor adaptations to make it more suitable to rural areas. The program was established in Warwick in 2008 and endeavours to meet the

New Program added - OurSpace: Metro South COPMI Program

OurSpace is an early intervention program, providing psycho-education, ongoing peer support, opportunities to build resilience and coping skills, as well as a safe and caring environment for children with parents, siblings or close relatives with a mental

New Resource added - Big and Me

Big and Small are machines that work together as a team. But some days Big goes a bit wobbly, and Small gets worried. Big malfunctions in a variety of ways and Small tries to help with the assistance of The Boss and Mechanic. The story is a metaphor fo

New Resource added - Being Seen and Heard: The needs of children with parents with a mental health illness

Workforce development for professionals Training tool for all professionals The Royal College of Psychiatrists was involved with the development of this multi-media training package for professionals who work with adults with mental illness. It provid

New Resource added - KOPING Adolescent Program Facilitators Manual and KOPING DVD

The KOPING DVD and accompanying CD ROM resource has been developed to support children, young people and their families whose parent/s are living with a mental illness or dual diagnosis by providing information about other young people?s experiences, ways

New Resource added - 7 Steps to Safety kit

7 Steps to Safety - a kit for parents and carers of children of all ages. It can help give children the skills and confidence they need to feel and be safe at home. Each step can be adapted to suit the needs of individual children, families and cultures.

GEMS Edition 2 is now available from the COPMI website.

Edition 2 - 'Children who care for parents with mental illness: A UK perspective'

Childhood stress linked to emotional disorders. 'Three years on: Survey of the emotional development and well-being of children and young people.'

Childhood stress link to emotional disorders - This 2007 survey followed up the second national survey of children's mental health carried out in 2004. Full report downloadable from the UK Office for National Statistics News Release.

New Resource added - The extent and impact of parental mental health problems on families and the acceptability, accessibility and effectiveness of interventions - Searchable database.

The Social Care Institute for Excellence in UK conducted a systematic mapping project on 'The extent and impact of parental mental health problems on families and the acceptability, accessibility and effectiveness of interventions'. Using selected inclusion criteria the mapping resulted in a listing of reference details for 754 articles/documents. Searches can be conducted by going to: http://eppi.ioe.ac.uk/webdatabases/Intro.aspx?ID=9. The full report describing the mapping project can be found on: http://www.scie.org.uk/publications/map/map01.asp