11th Worldwide Forum on Mental Health & Psychiatry October 07-08, 2019 Holiday Inn Rome Aurelia, Italy

Rebecca McKenzie is a Developmental Psychologist and Associate Professor of Early Childhood Studies at The University of Plymouth in the UK.

Background: Alongside symptoms of autism and maladaptive behaviour, children with autism and their families also report mental health problems. SAFE is a new family oriented intervention drawing upon attachment theory, systemic practice, multi-family therapy and preferences of people with autism.

Aim: A randomised controlled feasibility trial of SAFE was conducted to prepare for a definitive national UK trial to evaluate its effectiveness in promoting positive family change.

Objectives:

1. Demonstrate ability to identify, recruit and randomize eligible families.

2. Verify that outcome measures and follow-up are acceptable

3. Assess adherence to the intervention.

4. Gather quantitative data on outcomes

5. Collect data on experience of SAFE and the study.

Methods: Thirty-four families were recruited (randomised 2:1) to receive either

(i) the intervention plus support as usual (SAFE+SUE) or

(ii) support as usual (SUE). SAFE provided five 3-hour therapy sessions. The primary outcome measure was the Systemic CORE 15 (SCORE-15) assessing perception of family functioning. Secondary and process measures assessed therapists’ adherence to the intervention and families’ experience of the study materials, recruitment, intervention, perceived changes in relationships, wellbeing and coping.

Results: Data was provided at baseline by 34 families (122 individuals), at 24-weeks by 30 families ( 97 individuals). Primary outcome data were available at both time points, for every dimension for 88% Primary Caregivers. There was a marked reduction in negative family function for the SAFE+SUE group only resulting in a mean difference of >3 points on the SCORE 15. Secondary measures and process evaluation showed families receiving SAFE experienced positive change in family dynamics, psychological wellbeing and confidence in managing difficult behaviours. Therapists reported confidence in delivery of SAFE.

Conclusions: Families found the trial acceptable and the intervention helpful. Marked reductions in negative family function

and increases in psychological wellbeing and reciprocal understanding were evidenced from families receiving SAFE. This

study provides potential proof of efficacy for SAFE and will progress to a national UK trial prior to implementation.

Tammy has extensive corporate industry experience in auditing, business valuations, business development and healthcare operations for the past 25 years. Tammy has served on two different Board of Directors and has published two award winning books. Her education entails earning four college degrees which include: a Master’s of Arts in Health Services Administration, a Master’s of Accountancy, a Bachelor’s of Business Administration in Accounting and a Bachelor’s of Arts in Education. She graduated from the University of Michigan and the University of Wisconsin. Tammy is an engaging and informative keynote speaker and recently completed a TEDx talk on Why the Best Healthcare System Starts with YOU!.

The majority of patients seen in the hospital are presenting with chronic illnesses that have developed overtime. Illnesses such as chronic heart failure, diabetes, stroke, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease to name just a few. Chronic diseases do not appear overnight. In fact, it can sometimes take many years for such illnesses to develop and to show symptoms. Research shows that people value health and research also shows that people intend to take care of themselves; however, there is a breakdown in behavior that is misaligned with their intent. If we had only one car for our entire lives, we would be hypervigilant about taking care of it; yet we aren’t hypervigilant about taking care of our one and only body. Why? The way that people make the multitude of seemingly insignificant decisions every single day negatively impacts our health over our lifetimes. In fact, we make these decisions much like a teenager makes decisions, not taking into consideration long term consequences. Medicine has come a long way and continues to astonish us with new ways to treat diseases as well as to eradicate some altogether; however, the unfortunate fact is that we still have a long way to go in many areas. What can we do in the meantime? We can take charge by stepping up to be the CEO of our own health and

start making decisions above the conscious horizon.