Empowering families affected by psychosis

Although different types of services are available, many people with mental health problems and their families do not get help because there is a stigma associated with mental illness. Stigma affects the families of people with psychosis by leading them to hide the problem or pretend it is not there. Family members of people with mental health problems experience “courtesy stigma” through negative attitudes or behaviours. One way to reduce stigma is by breaking the secrecy and talking to others about the experience of having a relative with psychosis. It takes bravery to challenge stigma.