For Caregivers - Helping Loved Ones Cope With Mental Illness

The only thing worse than being depressed is pretending to not be depressed. Dealing with depression and all its concomitants has successfully taught us that is family and friends are a critical part of a patient’s journey to mental health wellbeing as they form the very foundation of unending support and trust. Thus, an integral part of SAHAYTA is to encourage families of people suffering to learn how to deal with them by attending our various Family Orientation endeavors.

In the event of a loved one refusing to seek professional help, you can still help them – just tell them you love them. It is important for people who are struggling with mental illness need to know that someone cares and is there them and that they are not alone. Assure them that treatment works and encourage them by offering to help locate a therapist, make an appointment for them or even accompany them to an appointment. Educate yourself about mental illness. If your loved one is talking about attempting suicide, realize the magnitude of the same and seek immediate help. Get into treatment yourself and explore avenues of leading a healthier and happier life. Therapy can help you cope with stress and anxiety while establishing you as a good role model. Once your loved ones see the benefits of treatment manifest in your life they will want the same.

Family Orientation

We strongly encourage family members of patients undergoing treatment to attend our Family Orientation Modules. Please understand, participation is vital to helping your loved one benefit the most from the treatment.

During the orientation,

  • We explain the interdisciplinary team approach and how it contributes to patient-centric care.
  • Help family members learn more about the evidence-based practices used such as milieu, metalizing, CBT, DBT, Recovery, etc.) and the course of treatment from admission to aftercare.
  • Highlight the importance of appropriate family support and involvement during the patient’s treatment and provide perspective and reassurance.
  • Answer questions about what to expect from the psychiatric services and the treatment process.