Caring for someone with a mental illness
Who can get help?
If you are caring for someone with a mental illness you can get help. You may be a relative, partner or close friend. You don't have to be living with the person you are caring for, as long as you are providing substantial care on a regular basis.
How do I get help?
The first step is to talk to someone and let them know you need help, ward staff, the care co-ordinator of the person you are caring for or their consultant.
If you would prefer to talk to someone else, ring your local mental health team.
What happens next?
After talking to someone you may decide that you need further help. Ask for a carer assessment. This is confidential, which can mean that the person you care for does not need to know.
What is a carer assessment?
This is time for you to talk to someone about your own needs as a carer and to find out what services are available.
A mental health worker will meet you, either in your own home or a place that suits you. The meeting can include the person you care for or be in private. If you wish you can have a friend or relative with you.
How can the assessment help me?
- Sometimes just being able to spend time talking about being a carer is helpful.
- You can find out about services for the person you care for and how to get them.
- You can get services to help you continue caring. This may be practical help with day to day tasks, or break from caring such as time out during the week.
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