Caregivers face challenges of every type. Caregivers help persons with physical disabilities, aged persons, injured individuals, and persons struggling with a mental illness. Regardless of the cause, it is important, whether you have volunteered for the role, or it has been thrust upon you by circumstances unfortunate and unexpected, to learn how to deal with the issues that arise in a way that reduces stress and strengthens preparation and flexibility.

NAMI provides help for caregivers of persons with a mental illness. To get started with NAMI’s resources, START HERE..

Other resources are also available. Although NAMI South Bay can’t endorse or guarantee these other sources, they are available by various means, including the internet. Caregiver.com is one such resource. It includes articles, resources and advice for caregivers of all varieties, including caregivers dealing with the symptoms of psychosis. For instance,  Its advice article about dealing with psychotic symptoms associated with schizophrenia begins:

Try to encourage them gently, never forcefully, to be a part of social gatherings when appropriate. Keep gatherings small and intimate, with one or two relatives or friends over for dinner instead of an all-day affair with the entire clan, like a wedding or family picnic; this may cause frustration and stress, helping to set the stage for another episode. Always discuss your plans with them, and suggest going on an outing once a week, like a drive or a walk in the country; go somewhere peaceful and quite, not hectic and noisy like a city…

The rest of the article can be found HERE.

Caregivers.com is not associated with NAMI. Do your own diligence. NAMI South Bay shares this information because it has become aware of the resource, but is not in a position to recommend, endorse or guarantee services or outcomes. 

Related articles

• Mental Illnesses Illustrated As Real Monsters By Toby Allen (boredpanda.com)
• Why are so many mentally ill people imprisoned in Pa.? (pottsmerc.com)
• Aid for Mentally Ill People (nytimes.com)
• Today’s Featured Digital Book: Caregivers Devotions to Go (mysimplejoylife.com)
• Rock Council Council on Aging hosts Art and Relaxation for Family Caregivers event (rockrivertimes.com)