For crisis support call Lifeline on 13 11 14, MH Call 1300 642 255 or in an emergency call 000
29-03-2024 11:29 PM - edited 29-03-2024 11:30 PM
29-03-2024 11:29 PM - edited 29-03-2024 11:30 PM
Hi all,
Looking to connect with other people my age who care for or support a family member with schizophrenia. I'm in Melbourne :).
I'm 28 F and feeling like I can't really rely on friends and extended family for support as they have their own stresses and commitments, and I do feel like they don't fully understand as they don't have direct lived experience living with a loved one who is affected by a psychiatric condition (which I completely get). Simple things, like travelling or buying tickets to an event, become complicated by all the uncertainty during relapses and I'm really tired of having to explain that I just can't do the same things they can do because my mum's health is a priority.
I find that I'm keeping a lot to myself and avoid talking openly about it too often. I think it would be so helpful to regularly chat with peers who "get it" and form supportive friendships in the long term.
Any suggestions (or peers here looking for connection also?)
29-03-2024 11:48 PM
29-03-2024 11:48 PM
Hi there @LP_ ,
We wanted to take this opportunity to welcome you to the forums.
We hope that you find the forums a great place to connect with other members, share stories and ideas, and find the support and connection you deserve.
Feel free to Introduce yourself here if you haven’t already!
We look forward to seeing you around on the forums!
Being affected while taking care of a loved one is a tiring work!
03-04-2024 11:53 AM
03-04-2024 11:53 AM
Hi @LP_
Thanks for reaching out! Well done for continuing to prioritise your own wellbeing and support, too.
https://www.austin.org.au/mental-health/carer-support-services-in-victoria/
I found a couple of good contacts specifically for carer support here which you might find useful.
That being said, I have always found patient support groups on FB to be quite supportive, too. I had a quick look and noticed a few groups online for those supporting a loved one with schizophrenia.
Hope you find something helpful for you soon 🙂
03-04-2024 07:27 PM
03-04-2024 07:27 PM
Hi @LP_ welcome to the forum. Is your mother going under medication?
We are here holding hands with you.
03-04-2024 10:34 PM
03-04-2024 10:34 PM
If you need urgent assistance, see Need help now
For mental health information, support, and referrals, contact SANE Support Services
SANE Forums is published by SANE with funding from the Australian Government Department of Health
SANE - ABN 92 006 533 606
PO Box 1226, Carlton VIC 3053
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia, their diversity, histories and knowledge and their continuing connections to land, waterways and culture. We pay our respect to all Australian Indigenous Peoples and their cultures, and to Elders of past, present and future generations.
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia, their diversity, histories and knowledge and their continuing connections to land, waterways and culture. We pay our respect to all Australian Indigenous Peoples and their cultures, and to Elders of past, present and future generations.
Brisbane North PHN wishes to acknowledge the experience and expertise of the My Mental Health Steering Committee, delegates of the Peer Participation in Mental Health Services (PPIMS) network and health professionals in developing the My Mental Health Website.