Caregiver Well-being

NAMI

For loved ones of people with mental illness, NAMI offers family support groups (in person and online) and classes for families/caregivers. Two relevant classes include NAMI Basics and NAMI Family to Family. Find your local NAMI

Al-Anon Family Groups

Families report that Al-Anon Family meetings address similar struggles as loving someone with a chronic and unpredictable illness, even if that illness is not alcoholism.

BPD Alliance (formerly NEABPD)

BPD Alliance provides education and support for families of individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), chronic emotional dysregulation, or similar relationship challenges. Their Family Connections class is based on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), teaching family members skills such as radical acceptance, validation, relationship mindfulness, and communication. Another relevant class they offer is Mastering Suicidality and Trauma Recovery.

Friends, family, family support groups, or therapy may help provide perspective and reduce isolation. Find what works for you and try to keep up consistently, not just during the acute crisis.

Especially when the young adult with mental illness does not live at home, burnout may catch families by surprise. Try to recognize the patterns early. Signs may include exhaustion, withdrawal from activities, frequent illness, body aches, irritability. Supports such as workplace accommodations, medical leave (including FMLA when applicable), shared caregiving responsibilities, and even something as simple as asking for a meal train could help maintain stability in difficult times.

Find activities that help you feel revitalized: a hobby, recreation, exercise, volunteering, or other restorative activities. Try to set aside regular time for these activities. Caring for your own well-being is important. It can make it easier to cope with the difficult things life throws your way and support a healthier, more sustainable life.

Even if your loved one is not engaging with you at this time, there are still things you can do. Take time to refocus on your own health and stability. Learn more about mental illness, communication, and crisis response to support future connections.