Facts & Recovery

Facts About Mental Illness

Mental illnesses are biologically based brain disorders. Like a thyroid disorder and diabetes, they must be treated medically and have nothing to do with moral fortitude.
1 in 4 American families have a loved one with a serious brain disorder.
Family members suffer along with the individual who experiences the illness.
Of those affected by mental illness, 50% will experience the onset of the brain disorder before the age of 15.
Over 90% of all suicides are the result of untreated or improperly treated brain disorders.
Stigma surrounding mental illness prevents people from seeking treatment.
Recovery is possible with appropriate medications, counseling, and supportive services.

Destination will be on the right

As families, you need information about the following:

How to minimize relapse/risk for relapse (know your family member’s coping skills)
How to respond when there is a crisis (CRISIS PLAN). Get this into the service plan.
How to determine realistic goals and expectations
How to help him/her manage stress
How to deal with specific behavior (hallucinations, delusions, substance abuse, poor hygiene, bizarre behavior in public, etc.)
How to COMMUNICATE (things to do/say and things not to do/say)

Whenever possible, talk over the problems with the service provider who is most directly involved.
Request meetings when you feel the need. Communicate concerns calmly and clearly.
Develop a good relationship and open communication with key individuals who are providing services to your relative.
Let people know that you appreciate their efforts.
How to COMMUNICATE (things to do/say and things not to do/say)