Information for carers

The new diagnosis often brings new problems. They may find it difficult or even impossible to get much needed care or treatment. They may also feel that they or their friend or relative are being blamed for the symptoms which have resulted in the new diagnosis. They may be given no explanation of what personality disorder means and feel confused about the new situation.

Similar problems may affect families or friends where the problems of a young relative with no previous diagnosis are being attributed to personality disorder, but they seem to be showing signs of mental illness which are not being recognised by the professionals. 

This page explores the issues and problems that face people in these difficult situations.  

How can I help?

Firstly reading this and other relevant information will help you to understand the difficulties which you may face and perhaps find options which may help.

Finding out what services are available locally is also useful, perhaps enquiring about how the local agencies plan to implement the government’s plans for people with personality disorders. If these are inadequate, you could challenge the Trust’s approach or perhaps make a formal complaint. You could consider involving your MP.

If possible, you should play a part in the care planning process but this may be very difficult if the person concerned does not wish family or friends to be informed or involved. If this happens, you could seek advice or support from Rethink Mental Illness or a similar organisation.

Many people have found it useful to get an expert second opinion if they have any doubts about the diagnosis which has been given. Obtaining a second opinion will obviously require the agreement of the person concerned.

Sometimes complementary therapies can be useful, so it may be worth exploring this possibility although they are often costly. 

What if the police, courts or prison become involved?

Sadly, people with personality disorders (or an untreated mental illness) may come to the attention of the police and may be charged with an offence.

It’s very important that they are helped by a lawyer who has some knowledge of mental disorders. Most people in this position use the services of the local duty solicitor but many of these are not sufficiently familiar with the issues and would not know where to get a helpful psychiatric report for the Court.

Also, they may not be familiar with the ‘diversion’ arrangements which enable people with mental health problems to be referred to health and social services rather than being dealt with by the police or Courts.  

To find a lawyer who is competent to deal with mental health and crime, you could contact the Law Society. You can search online at www.lawsociety.org.uk or enquire by telephone on 020 7242 1222. You can also search for a lawyer on the Community Legal Advice website at http://legaladviserfinder.justice.gov.uk/AdviserSearch.do.

For further information see our factsheet How to get legal advice and assistance factsheet.  

Unfortunately the terms used by the lawyers are often different from those used by the doctors.

The Rethink Advice & Information Service can help you understand the terminology and explain the diversion arrangements.

Carers or relatives can sometimes help by writing in to the court and explaining the background to the case, perhaps expressing the view that the person needs appropriate care and therapy rather than a fine or imprisonment.

What support is available for friends and families?

You may wish to contact a local support group for carers, especially one specifically related to mental health.

Rethink runs a number of carer support groups across the country. This would enable you to speak to others who understand your situation. Or you might prefer to get in touch with others by using the internet - go to useful contacts for personality disorder to find out how.