Having a loved one with mental health issues can be very painful and traumatic. The emotional and behavioral toll on family members is often not recognized. It can be extremely stressful along with promoting physical, mental, and emotional consequences upon the family. Some of the issues that caretakers experience include, somatic problems (migraines, loss of appetite, fatigue, and insomnia), cognitive and emotional problems (anxiety, depression, guilt, fear, anger, confusion) and behavioral troubles (changes in attitude and social withdrawal). In addition, job attendance and performance can be impacted as well as having financial stressors.
Examples of common stressors that families encounter include:
- The child refuses to go to school or get out of bed due to anxiety/depression. They fall behind in school creating more stress and anxiety.
- The family member doesn’t have access to care or refuses care.
- The family member is 18 years of age or older and the parent/caretaker no longer has input regarding their care.
- The family member refuses to take their medication and/or refuses help with managing their treatment/medication.
- The situation at home has become unsafe or overwhelming, impacting the family’s quality of life.
Participating in a support group allows you to be with others who understand what you are going through and share a common understanding. Having a loved one with mental illness can be extremely stressful, exhausting, and draining. It is a trial that has no end date. It often feels like riding a roller coaster with many ups and downs, highs and lows. It can impact relationships within the family and marriages. It is a type of grief that keeps reoccurring, and the pain never seems to end.
As you care for your loved one it is important to seek counsel from the Lord. He is your source of strength and comfort, and He promises that He will be with you through your struggles. He is your refuge as you endure trials and hardships.