Family Support
Supporting someone with schizophrenia.
How Families Can Help
Families and caregivers can provide valuable emotional and practical support. Families often play an important role in long-term care.
Helpful Approaches
- Listen without judgement
- Learn about schizophrenia
- Encourage professional treatment
- Maintain calm communication
- Respect personal boundaries
- Watch for significant changes
- Encourage healthy routines
- Encourage follow-up appointments
Take Care of Yourself Too
Supporting someone with a mental-health condition can be challenging. Family members and caregivers should also look after their own wellbeing and seek appropriate emotional and practical support when needed.
Related Information
Continue exploring this topic.
Family Therapy
Supporting families and caregivers.
Psychoeducation
Understanding the condition and its treatment.
Relapse Prevention
Reducing the risk of symptoms returning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I argue with unusual beliefs?
Arguing rarely helps. Listening calmly, staying respectful and encouraging professional support is usually more helpful.
What if my family member does not want treatment?
Stay calm and non-judgemental, keep communication open and speak to a mental-health professional about options. Seek urgent help if there is any risk of harm.
How can caregivers look after themselves?
Caregivers should seek emotional and practical support, keep their own routines and ask for help when needed.
You Don’t Have to Face It Alone
If you or someone you care about is experiencing concerning changes in thoughts, behaviour or perception, professional assessment can help.