How to Live With a Person With a Mental Disorder

by Eliana Kalsky

Overview

A mental disorder is an illness or psychological disability that affects an individual's state of mental health. While definitions and classifications of mental disorders can vary, most disorders are characterized by a person's inability to cope with or properly interpret environmental or social settings. It is not fully understood why some individuals develop mental disorders, but it is thought that biochemical imbalances in the brain, as well as other personal factors, can lead an individual to develop a mental disorder. Types of mental disorders can include bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression and various types of anxiety disorders. Living with a person suffering from a form of mental illness can at times be a stressful and frustrating experience, but you can take steps to help you cope with the situation.

Step 1

Find a support group. There are many support groups for the friends and family of those suffering from mental illness. They often meet at hospitals, churches or medical centers. Ask your doctor or conduct an online search to find a support group that will work for you. The American Self-Help Clearinghouse (www.mentalhelp.net/selfhelp/) maintains a list of self-help groups for a wide range of mental health disorders.
Step 2

Make sure the person with the disorder is taking his medications. This is probably one of the most important things that you can do. Be proactive, but not pushy, and be involved with his treatment. Find out which types of medications he is supposed to take, how often and what the dosage is. Follow up and make sure he is taking them as prescribed.
Step 3

Go with the person to his doctors' appointments. This will help the doctor to have a better understanding of the patient's domestic situation.
Step 4

Realize that your friend or family member's mental disorder is not his fault. Mental illness can happen to anyone; in fact, an estimated 54 million Americans suffer from some type of mental disorder.
Step 5

Handle behavioral problems with patience and understanding. Many symptoms of mental disorders are demonstrated through behavior, such as mood swings, crying jags or outbursts of anger. If the person's behavior suddenly becomes more erratic, speak to his doctor.