A study protocol for the randomized controlled trial SAFIR FAMILY TALK: a selective primary preventive intervention vs. service as usual for children of parents with mental illness.

Background: Children of parents with mental illness have an increased risk of developing mental illness themselves throughout their lifespan. This is due to genetic factors but also environmental disadvantages during childhood associated with parental mental illness. Selective primary preventive interventions for the children are recommended to mitigate risk factors and strengthen protective factors, but large-scale, longitudinal studies are needed.