Knowing when and how to give support can be difficult to figure out. You may want to protect your family member or friend, but remember that learning to manage one's own affairs, pursue goals and become independent are important aspects of an individual's recovery from mental illness.
The following information, forms, and documents will assist your loved one to have a voice in their care and an equal opportunity in work, treatment, school, and everyday life as they live with a mental illness. As you encourage your friend or family member to use the tools below, they will become more involved in their treatment, feel more in control and become more independent.
If you are a caregiver of someone with a mental illness, it is normal to feel unprepared or confused on how to help them. Feelings of inadequacy are common but remember, you are not alone and there is always professional help available. Here are 5 tips for being an effective caregiver...
If you or someone you know may benefit from a counselor or mental health center, here are some questions and guidelines to help you find the right care. Where you go for help will depend on if the person who needs help is an adult or child and what symptoms they are experiencing.
Of the 5.4 million people who sought mental health treatment in 1990, less than 7% required hospitalization.
Which mental health professional is right for me? There are many types of mental health professionals. Finding the right one for you may require some research. Below is a listing of types of mental health treatment professionals to help you understand the differences between the services they provide.
All information is sourced via Mental Health America Website.
FAMILY & CAREGIVER SUPPORT
If you are located in Stephenson County, we have an in-person support group that you are encouraged to attend. If you are not local, that's okay! There are many support groups for family and caregivers all over the world. Here is a link to find one in your area. It's important to know you are never alone. Often times, it can be very helpful to talk with others who are experiencing something similar (caring for someone with a mental illness).
Online support groups can also be very helpful. Join our online support group by clicking this link. Our support group is private, so anything you share is not available to the public. We know how important your privacy is when it comes to mental health. Many of our support group members have first-hand experience in providing care for a loved one with mental illness. Several of our support group members also struggle with a variety of mental health issues themselves. The members of our support group are willing to discuss their experiences with you and offer you their support.
When a friend or family member is living with a mental health condition it can be very stressful on those who love and care for them. You will be affected by the mental illness too. It's normal and understandable to feel a mixture of emotions; concern, compassion, disbelief, anger, anxiety, love, guilt, grief, and more. Persons with mental health conditions need your love, help and support. There may be times when they are demanding, disruptive, withdrawn, and more depending on how their symptoms are affecting them. Often times behaviors and problems of your loved one who is ill may test your patience and it can be difficult to cope. That's why we have created this area of the website. We want you to know you are not alone and there are resources to help you.