It’s often overlooked that the caregivers of mental health consumers also need support. They have to negotiate caring for someone who needs a lot of understanding, time spent with them, and the stigma against mental illness. They may feel powerless in the face of symptoms they understand but cannot control. Some mental health advocacy groups offer support groups for caregivers, for example, NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) in the USA. If you know someone who is a caregiver for a mental health consumer, try to give them some time to share their burden in a way that’s beneficial to the caregiver. The caregiver will be able to tell you how you can help. They may benefit from an outing if that can be arranged. Always show a caregiver TLC.
