Course overview
Having a family member who experiences psychosis can be frightening and overwhelming. You play a key role in supporting your relative and in promoting their wellness and recovery. However, this role may take a toll on you as well. This self-directed online program is designed to offer you support as you care for your relative.
Who is this course for?
This course is for families, friends and supporters of those who have experienced a first episode of psychosis. The course covers what your relative may experience during early psychosis and how you can work with a health care team to support your relative in the recovery process. The course will also help you recognize the stress and range of emotions you may be experiencing and understand the importance of addressing your own needs.
Learning goals
At the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Explain what psychosis is.
- Identify the impact of a relative’s symptoms of psychosis on you.
- Describe the challenges you may face with a relative experiencing psychosis.
- Explore ways to provide support to your family member during the recovery process.
- Explain the mechanisms of drug action in the brain.
- Identify physical, emotional, social and spiritual self-care strategies you can use to reduce your stress.
Format, learning activities and features
The six self-directed modules explore the issues faced by families with a relative who is experiencing symptoms of psychosis. Each module includes several self-reflection activities to help you think about the issues and challenges you may be facing, and strategies to address them.
It takes approximately one hour to complete one module, and approximately six hours to complete all six modules. You can work on the modules at your own pace at any time.
Delivery method
This online course requires you to use an internet browser, but the system does not support Microsoft Internet Explorer. For more details, please read the browser and compatibility support page.
Certification
You will earn a certificate of completion upon successfully completing the course.
Table of contents
Section 1 - Welcome and Overview
Section 2 - 1. Understanding psychosis
Section 3 - 2. Impact of psychosis on families
Section 4 - 3. Supporting your family member's recovery
Section 5 - 4. Communicating effectively with your relative, problem solving and setting limits
Section 6 - 5. Staying safe and managing crises
Section 7 - 6. Empowering yourself through support and self-care