Managing Stress in Families

Originally published in 1993, Managing Stress in Families deals with the use of well-researched psychosocial strategies in working with families under stress. This includes households where one or more members experience major mental or physical health problems, learning disabilities, as well as marital and family stresses. It takes a structured problem-solving approach that builds on the efforts of all members living together to manage their stresses in the best way they know. Designed as a practical workbook to assist in the training of therapists from all clinical disciplines, the book describes in detail the strategies that are effective in working with families, and the therapist skills required in order to employ these interventions. The authors, who have all worked with families in community settings, describe in a clear step-by-step manner how to employ a variety of techniques including communication skills training and training in the use of problem-solving skills. They use case studies to illustrate their practice and to cover problem areas such as dealing with crises and the difficulties that arise in therapy. Managing Stress in Families is an invaluable practical handbook which gives a clear idea of what to do in therapy sessions. It will be of immense help to all mental health and social service practitioners, particularly those working in community settings.

Ian R. H. Falloon, Marc Laporta, Gráinne Fadden and Victor Graham-Hole

List of Illustrations. Preface. 1. Coping with Stress: The Role of the Family 2. Engaging Families in Behavioural Family Therapy 3. Assessment of the Family Unit 4. Educating People with Disorders and Carers About Mental Health 5. Communication Training 6. Solving Problems and Achieving Goals 7. Crisis Intervention 8. Specific Strategies 9. Coping with Problems in the Application of Behavioural Family Therapy. Appendix A: Therapist Competence. Appendix B: Session Guides I-V. Bibliography. Name Index. Subject Index.