Psychoeducation programs to support family members living with youth with substance abuse: an integrative literature review

Objective The aim of this integrative literature review was to explore and describe existing psychoeducational programs to facilitate family members’ support when living with youth with substance abuse.Methods The integrative literature search was guided by the following inclusion criteria: Quantitative or qualitative studies or reports from experts and institutions regarding psychoeducational programs for families of youth with substance abuse. Literature used was published within the last 10 years.Findings The selected publications yielded results on a variety of psychoeducational programs and/or interventions. Some programs or interventions provide information combined with motivational interventions and/or skills development. The development of interpersonal and coping skills for family members seemed to be an integral part of psychoeducation. Three interventions aimed to facilitate peer and family support.Conclusions The positive results yielded by most of the studies are promising and the use of psychoeducation is recommended to support families. The provision of knowledge should be combined with motivational and/or cognitive behavioral interventions to enhance coping and interpersonal skills.