Help for Families

Families can play a valuable role in supporting a family member with a mental health problem. Having a family member with a mental illness is stressful. In addition to coping with the practical issues of day-to-day living, families can experience tremendous guilt, fear, grief, anxiety, self-doubt and uncertainty. The person with the mental illness benefits most from support and encouragement. Family members and friends who have a good understanding of the illness and treatment options will be better equipped to be supportive. Each family member may react differently to the situation. The person dealing with a mental illness must always be treated with dignity and respect.

Many self-help organizations offer information and support to families.

Here are a few tips for families:

Find out about mental health resources in the community.
Keep a journal of notes about what has been happening, which can help you to see patterns, etc.
Make a list of questions you may want to ask the doctor.
Ask for information about the illness and the treatment.
Offer choices to the person such as ”Will you go to the hospital with me or would you prefer (name a friend) go with you?”
Have a plan for dealing with crisis situations such as who to call, what services are available, and who can support the person and family through a crisis.
Make sure you are looking after yourself: maintain outside interests, gain support from others, seek counselling if necessary.