Current location
You are here: for carers and family > caring for someone with a particular need > particular health conditions > depression and anxiety > caring for someone with a mental illnessFor carers and family
Caring for someone with a mental illness
People who experience mental health problems may at times experience difficulties in the way they think, feel and behave. These difficulties may influence their relationships, work and enjoyment of life.
If you’re caring for someone with a mental illness you may notice changes in their behaviour. These could be caused by changes in their condition, or their treatment, or sometimes failure to take their medication. They might behave aggressively or in a threatening way towards others, or do things that could harm themselves. You must protect yourself, but it’s just as important to offer support and assistance to the person when they’re unwell as when they’re well.
It’s also important to remember that mental illnesses can be managed through medication, counselling, and other treatment, just like a physical illness.
Read more: Help for people with depression and anxiety