Investigating the development, delivery and outcomes of internet based help for family members affected by addiction problems

The aim of this dissertation was to investigate the feasibility of developing, delivering and outcome of the internet delivery of evidence based manualized intervention, for family members. Family members are often the ones to start feeling the negative effects of a loved one’s misuse of alcohol of drugs and service delivery though expanding to recognise the needs of family members, is not yet fully addressing these needs. The 5-Step Method which was developed based on the Stress-Strain- Coping-Support Model offers a way to work directly with family members in addressing their needs. There is evidence available suggests that when the 5-Step Method is delivered in other formats, in a variety of settings, by various health care professionals; that it does lead to positive changes for the family member. The challenge of the 5-Step Method therefore was to make it more widely available. The internet offers an option through which this intervention may be made available to family members. Results of the internet delivery of this intervention show that family members found it acceptable, easy to use, and helpful. It did lead to changes in the way family members cope, as well as reductions in the impact and symptoms. These results suggest that the internet is a viable medium for the delivery of this intervention for family members. The implications of these findings are further discussed with suggestions for future research