“I care so much and do my best to look after him, but I need support.”

It can be extremely difficult to understand what someone you love is going through when they are diagnosed with schizophrenia.

It is important to remember that you are not alone. There are support services and training programs available for family and friends of those living with mental illness.

If you are caring for someone with schiozophrenia it is important that you:

  • Acknowledge and talk about your feelings;
  • Learn as much as you can about the illness and its treatment;
  • Be realistic about how much care you can provide and identify where you need help;
  • Allow them to maintain their independence while also providing the support they need to stay well; and
  • Look after yourself and take time out. Your physical and mental health is just as important as the person you are looking after.

By speaking with the family members and friends of other people who are living with a mental illness, you will soon learn that you are not alone. One day you might choose to share your knowledge with others who have had a similar experience.

We encourage you to seek support from the following organisations:

  • The Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia provides education programs to support families and friends of people with mental illness. For more information, contact the Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia in your state;
  • Call the SANE Helpline 1800 187 263 for details of support groups and other services for family carers in your area;
  • Visit www.arafmi.org or contact ARAFMI in your state for details of support services for family carers in your area;
  • Centrelink provides details of benefits and services for family carers as well as for people with a mental illness. Visit www.centrelink.gov.au or call 13 10 21;
  • Carers Australia provides details of local Carers Associations and their services, including respite. Visit www.carersaustralia.com.au or call 1800 242 636; and,
  • Commonwealth Carelink provides details of government services for people with a disability and their carers. Visit www.commcarelink.health.gov.au or call 1800 052 222.