Mental health awareness and coping in foster carers: The impact of a counselling skills intervention

Abstract

The experience of early abuse and neglect can predispose victims to mental health problems. Mental health awareness as an aspect of mental health literacy can prevent deterioration in mental health and promote post-abuse recovery. The lack of research on mental health awareness in carers means there is little understanding regarding the association between mental health awareness and their looked after children’s emotional and mental health needs. This study examined the impact of a counselling skills intervention on foster carers’ confidence in their mental health awareness and their ability to cope. This was done by enhancing communication skills. Foster carers undertook a training course in counselling skills of 30 hours duration. Data were collected before and after the course. Results indicated that foster carers believed they had a better understanding of looked after children’s emotional needs and their mental health. This study highlights the need for further training for foster carers.