1. Mental Illness and the Effects on & Role of the Family Jeffrey Rowe, MD Supervising Psychiatrist, County of San Diego Associate Clinical Professor, UCSD

7. In a family… Routines, roles, expectations, activities Everyone’s family is a bit different, but many things are the same – ANCHORING – SUPPORT DEVELOPMENT – HANDLE CHALLENGES – CELEBRATE EVENTS

8. When Mental Illness develops in a family member… Anchors shake and loosen Impact depends on who is affected and how Old ways can’t continue FUTURE altered

9. Serious Mental Illness Anxiety, depression, substance use Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, substance dependence, dementia – DISABILITY – CHANGE OF ROLES Reversal, extension, more involvement – GRIEF REACTION Denial, fear, hope, frustration, anger…

10. Complex Reactions Worries – Find helpful treatment? Regret, frustration, anger Helplessness Demandingness Apathy – ALL MIXED TOGETHER!

11. Most Rally from these Reactions Acceptance Sharing with others – Stories, advice – Help each other Caring, supporting the family member Accentuate the positive and the ability Find help Give help Advocate for people with this problem

12. Quite awful to discover someone you love has a serious mental illness The responses are complex, vary over time. Coming to grips with the condition, confirming your support and commitment to your family member, helping others