What can I do?
Learn about mental illness and addiction
It can be easier to cope when you feel informed about what your family member is experiencing. Many websites, books and articles are available, but sometimes it is difficult to know what information is accurate. The “Resources” section here is a good place to start. There may also be education sessions that you can attend.
Talk to your family member about your concerns, and encourage them to seek support
Let your family member know you are concerned. It can be helpful to consider how best to express your concerns. See the previous section, “How should I talk to my family member?”, for suggestions.
Suggest that the person see their family doctor or make an appointment at a treatment centre. Sometimes it may be possible for your family member to make a self-referral to a treatment centre, and in other cases a physician referral may be required.
Get support for yourself and your family
It is helpful to get connected with family support. This could include attending an education session, meeting with a therapist or joining a support group. There are also peer family supports in the community. See the “Resources” section for suggestions on where you can find support.
Take care of yourself
Supporting a family member with a mental illness or addiction can be overwhelming. It can be a challenge to balance your own needs with being there for them. Take time for yourself and ensure that your own needs are being met—you cannot support your family member effectively if you are not also taking care of yourself.
- Make time for activities that help you cope with stress.
- Make time to see other family members and friends.
- Don’t be afraid to ask friends and family for help.
- Be aware of your boundaries and set limits to make sure they are respected.
- Look after your own physical and mental health, and seek support if necessary.
Support other family members
Mental illness and addiction affect the whole family, as well as the person’s friends. It is important that everyone receives the support they need. Give what support you can, without overwhelming yourself, and direct others to the resources listed at the end of this pamphlet.
Children in particular may need help to understand what is happening. If you are concerned about how a child is coping, you could speak to their family doctor. Support may also be available from a school social worker or through a community organization (see the “Resources” section).
Get to know the Mental Health Act and crisis resources
It is helpful to know what resources are available to you if there is a crisis. For more information, see “How do I prepare for a crisis?” and “Can I force my family member into treatment?”