Mental health is not something someone chooses to experience. It is something that is happening to them. We cannot choose or control what happens to us and what we experience however we can control what we do about it to a degree. When someone is struggling with their mental health, it can impact the system in which they are functioning and by this I mean their wider network. This includes family, friends, co-workers, etc. When our close loved ones are trying to support us, we need to keep in mind the impact mental health can have on them too.

When we see that close supports are also struggling with managing their loved ones care, we often suggest these four things:

Get Informed - begin to read up on as much information as you can about the mental health condition your loved one is experiencing so as not to trivialise it. There is a lot of information out there on the internet so be mindful of what you are reading and where you are reading it. Knowledge is power. The more you know about what you are dealing with the better you can manage expectations and support each other as well as your loved one.
Be Appropriately Involved - we encourage families and loved ones to be involved if it’s appropriate. This is more common for younger people, however sometimes adults in treatment want to be open and share what they're going through with partners and other close loved ones. When families and loved ones are involved we usually include information that is not sensitive but rather informative so that they know what to do at home when the going gets tough, and when to call out for extra support.
Take Care of Yourself Too - dealing with mental health is tough for everyone involved so it’s important to constantly find ways of recharging your batteries. Connect with people you trust, have your own support network. Keep up with your own routine.
Communicate - be transparent and do so respectfully. The more transparent our communication is the less overwhelming problems become.

If you or a loved one is struggling with managing their mental health then get in touch with our team to arrange an appointment on (03) 9882-8874.

This blog was written and prepared by Dr Celin Gelgec - Director at Melbourne Wellbeing Group.