3. Supporting your family member’s recovery
Importance of your role as family
Many treatment services for people experiencing psychosis now have intervention programs that include families. You are an invaluable part of the treatment team supporting your relative’s recovery. Health care teams are moving toward engaging and collaborating with you in the treatment of your relative. In addition to partnering with you in your relative’s care, psychoeducation groups and programs that offer information about psychosis, treatment, skills on how to minimize family disruption and the recovery process are available. Know that helping your relative recover from psychosis is a process that takes time. However, you play an essential role.
Because of the nature of your relationship with your relative, you have unique insight about them and can make a significant difference during a vulnerable time in their life. You are your relative’s most constant support during their journey and can play a key role in different phases.
Intervention
You know your relative better than health care providers. Therefore, you may be the first to identify subtle signs and early symptoms. By observing these symptoms, you can encourage your relative to seek treatment, which can result in early identification and intervention.
Assessment
Observations such as those just mentioned can contribute to a more in-depth assessment.
Care planning
Your ability to recognize and identify change and progress from treatments is valuable.
Recovery
You play a pivotal role in supporting your relative’s treatment, preventing more severe illness and promoting overall recovery.
Empowering Families Affected by Psychosis © , CAMH.