Family Therapy Offers Hope for Childhood Anxiety, Depression

Children’s mental health struggles have surged since the pandemic, causing parental distress. A recent study reveals that involving parents in therapy can significantly aid children with anxiety and depression, fostering better communication and swifter recovery.

The Power of Family-Based Therapy

Research from Murdoch University highlights the effectiveness of family-focused therapy in treating children aged 3-11. The study, led by Dr. Kim Lee Kho, examined Behavior Exchange and Systems Therapy – Foundations (BEST-F). This approach places the parent-child relationship at the core of treatment.

Dr. Kho‘s findings demonstrated a significant impact of this method, particularly in reducing the internalization of depressive and anxious symptoms in children. The BEST-F model, developed in Melbourne and Perth by researchers including Professor Andrew Lewis, proved beneficial.

“We know that children are embedded within many systems, and the family system is of prime importance.”

—Dr. Renita Almeida, Study Co-author

Globally, the psychological distress experienced by children and caregivers underscores the necessity of this research. The family environment significantly affects the transmission of anxiety and depression; however, it also provides opportunities for positive change. The CDC reports that, in 2021, 4.4% of U.S. children aged 3-17 years had diagnosed anxiety (CDC 2021).

Creating a Safe Space

A crucial aspect of the study was the feeling of safety and trust cultivated within the therapy setting. Parents felt supported and understood, which greatly enhanced their experience. One parent shared how BEST-F transformed their family’s communication.

“I felt heard and seen by you [therapist] when we talked about what I’ve experienced in the past. I felt safe and that changed everything for me, and my family could tell the difference too.”

—Study Participant

This sense of security allowed the child to openly discuss their feelings, leading to improvements across the family system. These enhancements continued to unfold and deepen over time, as observed in follow-up assessments.

Future Implications

Dr. Almeida noted that when the entire family engages in therapeutic intervention, improvements manifest not only in the child’s mental health but also in the parent’s and the family’s overall functioning. Dr. Kho is optimistic that these results will influence future treatments for childhood depression and anxiety.

The team aims to initiate a larger clinical trial soon, with the goal of offering this intervention as a community resource, helping families manage and overcome these challenging issues together.