When your loved one struggles with a mental disorder, there are no easy answers, but there are a few things you can do to give the person you are caring for the best chance of recovery.

In Hong Kong, at least one in six residents suffer from a common mental disorder, such as anxiety, depression, and psychotic disorder . These mental disorders result in not only physical changes but also changes in thinking, behaviours, and feelings. The unpredictable and complex nature of these conditions, coupled with the stigma attached to mental illness, presents a particular challenge for caregivers of mentally-ill individuals.  

We talk to Ms. Fong, an in-home caregiver at Evercare and a psychiatric nurse with five years of clinical experience. She shares valuable insights into the challenges faced by mental health sufferers, and advises caregivers on how they can provide emotional support to reaffirm their loved one’s sense of self and capacity to recover. 

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

1. Can you tell us about your work as a psychiatric nurse? What made you choose this field?

Prior to working as an in-home caregiver at Evercare, I practiced at Queen Mary Hospital, caring for youngsters and seniors who struggled with mental illness. Because of the stigma associated with working in psychiatry, my initial decision to serve this vulnerable population was met with many questions and concerns. My colleagues were curious as to why I had chosen to start my nursing career in a psychiatric unit. After all, it was not  the most popular of options in the field, but I took an interest anyway. Perhaps it was a calling.

2. You mentioned the stigma around mental illness. How has that affected mental health sufferers?

Stigma has dampening effects on the overall rehabilitation of individuals suffering from mental disorders. Many sufferers are reluctant to seek help or admit to having a problem because they are afraid of being mistakenly labelled as “weak, violent, and abnormal.” Instead, they withdraw from others. Many receive no support or understanding from their families and society. The lack of help and isolation can exacerbate their symptoms, which, in turn, creates a vicious cycle. 

3. Do you have any advice for caregivers on how to communicate with and support their loved one who has a mental illness? What are the dos and don’ts? 

Understanding is the first step to acceptance, and only with acceptance can there be successful caregiving and recovery. Caregivers should do more research on the illnesses to understand what to expect, its symptoms, and risk factors. Only after that can the caregiver get a better understanding of their caregiving situation and develop effective coping strategies to respond to their loved one’s needs and demands.

Listen non-judgmentally. Be proactive in making conversation and be patient—with yourself, your loved one, and with the process. Don’t raise your voice or attempt to intimidate or “discipline” the person. Avoid sounding patronising or condescending.   

At first, it seems like you’re talking to yourself, but over time, the conversation will allow you to gain valuable insight into the experiences your loved one is going through, and it will increase their willingness to hear what you have to say. 

Caregivers should be aware that progress is an arduous and enduring process for someone with mental disorders. Therefore, they shouldn’t feel defeated when things don’t progress. When your loved one is experiencing a breakdown or a relapse, stay beside them and give them reassurance. 

If you are caring for someone who’s struggling with mental health issues, it is normal to feel unprepared or confused. When you’re feeling inadequate, there is always professional help available. Evercare has a team of psychiatric nurses to give you the guidance you need. Click here to learn more.

Featured photo by  @ danielcgold