Your Response to a Mental Illness Diagnosis is Important
There are millions of Americans living with mental illness. Whatever their diagnosis, when a person receives a mental illness diagnosis, it
not only affects them but those they love as well. The illness of a loved one will inevitably impact all family members. One of the challenges for families is knowing what they can do to help and support the one with mental illness. There are several practical ways to help:
1. Learn and read all you can about what your loved ones mental illness diagnosis is. The diagnosing professional (medical doctor or mental health professional) can give you pamphlets explaining all about the condition. The more you understand about the illness, the less apprehensive you will be.
2. Help your loved one get the most from treatment. You can offer to drive them to their regular appointments. If you live with the person you could also help by journaling symptoms, successes and challenges. Keeping track of the condition’s daily, weekly and monthly trajectory can be immensely helpful.
3. Hold out steadfast love and hope – two things your loved one needs. They may not always be able to verbalize their gratitude for your stalwart support because of their illness, but it does make a positive difference. Treatment for mental illness is effective, but can take time. Having a cheerleader on hand can help your loved one stay committed.
The more your loved one sees you engage with their mental illness diagnosis, the more hopeful they will feel. The support role can be exacting so consider joining a support group. At least take healthy self-care breaks. At Family Guidance Center we have resources for treating mental illness, but also for helping those who fill the support role. Contact us and learn how we can be part of your practical response.
