Adjusting to change

A diagnosis of some form of severe mental illness is likely to be very disturbing for both your relative and you as an informal carer and the wider family. You may be in a state of shock and will still be learning to come to terms with the diagnosis and to deal with the new situation.

Hands passing cup of tea As the reality of the change in both your relative's life and that of your own begins to dawn, you may find yourself experiencing feelings of guilt, shame and even a profound sense of loss. You and other family members may feel depressed from time to time when you think about what the future might hold. It is important you know how to care for yourself and your family in these difficult periods.

Communication about ther problem is likely to be particularly difficult in the early stages of a new diagnosis and illness. Family members may feel awkward talking, even amongst themselves, about severe mental illness occuring in a close relative.

Parents may feel acutley guilty, thinking that they might be to blame for the illness. Brothers and sisters may feel embarrassed or angry that their sibling has developed a socially unacceptable illness. All family members may become acutely worried about how the illness will afffect them now, and in the future.

A number of common issues are reported by families and carers of people with a mental illnes, in regards to coming to terms with a new and often unpredictable situation...

  • what do you tell family and friends - who needs to know and how much should they be told?
  • dealing with unusual thoughts and behaviours
  • helping a relative accept their diagnosis.

Further information

The National Advice Service provides information and advice on a range of issues affecting people with mental health problems, their friends and family, informal and professional carers.