[Family Approaches in Early Intervention: Benchmarks to Guide Intervention and Support Families in First Episode...

There is now broad consensus on the usefulness of family approaches in early intervention programs. The evolution of knowledge about early psychosis and the development of family interventions have greatly influenced the perception of families in the recovery process. Objectives This article proposes a state of knowledge of family intervention practices by looking at family involvement in early intervention. Knowledge from the family journey constitutes the historical basis of the article, while more recent knowledge about psychotic disorders and family intervention form the basis of the article's content. The objectives are to: 1) document the specific impacts and needs of families during a first episode of psychosis (FEP); 2) review the main approaches in family intervention; 3) guide the application of family interventions in FEP programs and 4) raise issues related to family involvement in early intervention. Method Historical knowledge on the development of family intervention approaches in mental health was documented from the work of pioneers in the field of family intervention, while the state of current practices has been the subject of a literature review (intervention models and approaches, effectiveness of interventions, issues of intervention and family involvement, etc.). Results from recent studies conducted in Quebec and elsewhere provide an overview of intervention methods and the contribution of families in early intervention teams. Issues related to the establishment of collaborative practices, information sharing and respect for confidentiality in mental health are addressed. Results Knowledge from the literature review and recent research is highlighted in relation to the First Episode Psychosis Intervention Programs Framework (Cadre PPEP, 2018) and the Mental Health Action Plan measures (PASM 2015-2020), as well as to international best practice guidelines for early intervention. They identify what has been achieved as well as ways to move forward in order to continue developing family intervention practices in Quebec. Conclusion Recognition of the essential role of families and their involvement in early intervention presents challenges. While family interventions have demonstrated their effectiveness, both for the person with the disorder and for their family, actions must be taken to support the implementation of these practices and ensure their sustainability in early intervention teams.