14 tips on how to support a loved one with a mental illness
How you treat your loved one has a big impact on their well-being says Clinical Psychologist, Zelda Buitendag
POLOKWANE – In the old days, having a mental illness was something to hide and not to be talked about, over the years, however, the stigma slowly died away but it is not yet completely gone.
Zelda gives advice on support a loved one with a mental illness.
“When a loved one has a psychiatric disorder, it’s a challenge for everyone – parents, siblings, friends and other relatives. The willingness to come together as a unit, accept the diagnosis, look for help, and to go beyond criticism, blame and judgement will not guarantee recovery but it makes it far more likely. Denial and disapproval will only worsen the situation. Family support (and by family, I mean a biological family or a chosen one) is vital to recovery,” she continues.
However, supporting a loved one with mental illness presents many challenges.
Here are several tips on how to support a loved one with mental illness:
• Educate yourself about the illness. It can help to understand the diagnosis and how it affects the person you care for.
• Read about the illness, seek out resources to tell you more.
• Don’t expect too much of your loved one. Have realistic expectations as these can have an impact on their recovery.
• Reach out for support and take it when it is offered.
• Work closely with your loved one’s treatment team – the doctors, psychiatrists and psychologists.
• Let your loved one have control.
• Encourage them to talk to mental health professional.
• Set the appropriate limits – boundaries are important.
• Be patient – getting better can take time
• You have to realise that the feelings of shame and guilt are normal.
• Recognise and acknowledge your loved one’s courage.
• Help yourself. Look after yourself.
• Be calm and stay calm. Your actions can influence your loved one and impact their symptoms.
• Convey hope and support your loved one.
“How you treat your loved one has a big impact on their well-being. There is no right or wrong way to support someone with a mental illness. How you support someone will depend on you and the person you care for,” Zelda concludes.
