Mental illnesses are chronic disorders whose onset and acute phases are stressful and traumatic for everyone involved.
Those who are ill struggle with mood, anxiety and delusions; family members struggle with guilt, grief, fear and isolation. The health system offers some help to those who are ill, but the family is usually left to cope alone as best they can.
The BC Schizophrenia Society - Sunshine Coast Branch can help.
The Coast branch is offering Family to Family, a free, intensive, 12-session program presented by family members, for family members.
Family to Family gives participants the tools to understand the symptoms of mood, anxiety and psychotic disorders, and to empathize with those experiencing them. Treatment, communication, advocacy and self-care are among the topics that are covered. Participants learn from and give support to each other within the structure of this well- tested program, and become empowered to deal more confidently with their own particular situation.
Classes will be held Tuesday evenings from 7 to 9:30 p.m. starting March 31 and ending June 16, at Arrowhead Centre in Sechelt. The course is free, but class size is limited, so early registration is advised.
To register, please call Donna at 604-885-9705 or Fran at 604-885-5956.
