When a parent struggles with anxiety, depression, or long-term stress, the effects are rarely confined to the individual. Daily routines, emotional availability, and family relationships can all suffer, increasing the risk that children may develop mental health problems of their own. New research suggests that digital parenting programmes, designed with direct input from parents and clinicians, could offer practical and emotional support to families navigating these challenges. The findings were published in Children
The study focused on parents who were already seeking mental health support through adult services. Many described feeling overwhelmed by competing demands, low energy, and guilt about their parenting. Although parenting support can help break cycles of distress, it is not consistently offered within adult mental health care, leaving many families without guidance at a time when they need it most.
Researchers worked with parents and mental health professionals to adapt an existing online parenting programme so it would better fit real world clinical settings. Instead of assuming parents only needed information, the project explored what actually helps when mental health issues affect family life. Participants highlighted the importance of emotional reassurance, practical advice that can be applied at home, and flexibility to engage at a pace that suits fluctuating well-being.
Parents involved in the project said digital support was appealing because it reduced barriers such as stigma, transport, and time pressures. Being able to access content at home made it easier to engage during difficult periods. However, parents also stressed that technology alone was not enough. They valued human contact and wanted digital tools to complement, rather than replace, conversations with clinicians.
Clinicians echoed this view, noting that parenting difficulties are closely linked to a parent’s mental health. Integrating parenting guidance into existing therapy sessions allowed them to support the whole family without adding excessive workload. Short online modules could be discussed during appointments, helping parents translate ideas into everyday practice while reinforcing their existing strengths.
The adapted programme focused on several key needs. These included helping parents feel ready to engage with parenting support, offering validation rather than judgement, and providing personalised strategies that reflect different family situations. Accessibility was also central, with content designed to be clear, manageable, and usable during periods of low concentration or motivation.
Early feedback from parents who trialled the online modules was largely positive. They described the tone as supportive and reassuring, and many felt it helped normalise their experiences. Some said the material reminded them that perfection is neither possible nor required, which reduced self blame. Others noted that while much of the information was familiar, the structure encouraged reflection and small changes rather than unrealistic goals.
The study suggests that digital parenting support embedded within adult mental health services could play an important role in family focused care. By addressing parenting alongside mental health treatment, services may help reduce long term risks for children while supporting parents’ recovery. Further testing is needed, but the findings point to a practical way of reaching families who might otherwise miss out on help.