Support for carers

Supporting a family member, loved one or friend with psychosis can be challenging. Psychosis may involve changes in thinking, perception, and behaviour - such as voice hearing or distressing and unusual beliefs - which can be difficult for both the individual and those around them.

How psychosis can affect carers:

  • Emotional strain: Feelings of worry, fear, sadness, and helplessness are common.
  • Stress and burnout: The demands of care can lead to feeling exhausted or overwhelmed.
  • Isolation: Stigma and misunderstanding may reduce social support.
  • Financial pressure: Time off work or added responsibilities can affect income.
  • Relationship changes: Roles within the family may shift, creating tension or loss.

Here are some tips on supporting a loved one, friend or family member while also looking after yourself:

Stay calm as best you can: Your loved one may feel scared or confused. A calm presence can help them feel safer.

Validate their feelings: Even if you don’t share their beliefs, you can validate your loved ones feeling by saying things like, ‘it sounds like things must feel quite frightening for you right now”

Create a safe space: Reduce noise and distractions and give them space if they need it.

Encourage professional help: Support them in accessing mental health services

Look after yourself: Your wellbeing matters. Take breaks, talk to someone you trust, and seek support.

It’s understandable to feel concerned when a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis. It’s not always easy to know when they need urgent or emergency support.

It is important to seek urgent support, for example: if your friend or loved one is experiencing hallucinations or delusions relating to hurting themselves or others; and they are unable to guarantee they will not immediately act on these thoughts to hurt or harm themselves or others.

Non-emergency support

 While it may not be urgent, it is important to reach out for support if your friend or loved one is neglecting looking after themselves in a way that risks their health or wellbeing. A GP can be a helpful first point of contact to connect your loved one with the right support.

Need Help Now?

  • Emergency: Call 999
  • Mental Health Crisis: Call NHS 24 on 111
  • Samaritans: Call 116 123 (24/7)

Despite the challenges, many carers show great resilience. With the right support, education, and access to services, families can play a vital role in recovery while protecting their own wellbeing.

It’s important to remember you are not alone. Help is available.

Further information from Mind: Helping someone who's experiencing psychosis

Local resources / support – Change Mental Health

Change Mental Health offers dedicated services for carers across Scotland. Their Carer Support Service provides:

  • Emotional support and a safe space to talk
  • Peer groups and one-to-one sessions
  • Help with coping strategies and self-care
  • Guidance on rights and navigating mental health systems

 

Help for Carers PDF

Contact their Advice and Support Service:

Website: changemh.org/advice-and-support

Email: advice@changemh.org

Phone: 0808 8010 515

Family-and-Friends-Booklet.pdf

Fife Carers Centre