Many serious disorders such as bipolar disorder , schizophrenia , or schizoaffective disorder develop in late teens or early adulthood. When a family member is diagnosed with a serious mental illness, the entire family is impacted. It is important to understand that members of the family, other than the one who is ill, may need help coping and learning how to best support someone who is struggling with a mental illness.

A teen or adult child with a mental illness will face challenging issues. First, there is the difficulty that occurs before seeking a diagnosis. Young people who are struggling with a mental health issue often attempt to deal with it by withdrawing from others. They can experience intense mood swings that are not within the normal range for teens or young adults. This can be a frightening and confusing time for the entire family as it is difficult to understand what is happening and how to deal with it.

As a parent, you need to take care of yourself as well as your child. If you think your child may be suffering from a mental illness, it is essential to get him or her diagnosed by a professional. Self-diagnosis is dangerous and can cause you to pursue treatments that do not work. Alternatively, some families ignore the issue and hope it goes away on its own. This is extremely unfortunate as early diagnosis and treatment will give your child the greatest chance of getting better and learning how to best manage how to deal with symptoms. Even mental illnesses that are chronic or thought to be life-long can be managed, and those who seek therapy and treatment can go on to achieve success and experience well-being and happiness despite their illness.

If you are parenting a child who has been diagnosed with a serious mental illness, you may want to talk to a therapist about your own feelings. No parent is ever prepared to hear the words “Your child has a serious mental illness.” Grief, denial, fear, and confusion are common responses.

You may find it helpful to talk to a therapist experienced in working with serious mental illness who can provide education and guidance around how to help your child. Additionally, you need to prioritize your own self-care. Therapy can help you process your feelings and find the best way to move forward. In order to care for others, you must first care for yourself.

Hyacinth Morgan , LMHC, is a psychotherapist in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, providing therapy for children, teens, and adults. Hyacinth is an expert in sand tray therapy , for both children and adults. She uses talk, art, and play therapies, as well as meditation and other modalities to help you or your child feel better and achieve your goals.

If you are coping with the serious mental illness of a family member and could benefit from support and guidance, give her a call.

The post When a family member is diagnosed with a serious mental illness appeared first on Heart and Mind Connections.