HealthInfo Canterbury
Supporting someone with psychosis
Te tautoko i tētahi me te heaheatanga
If you're close to someone who has a psychotic disorder, the way you support them will be very important to their recovery. They may not realise that they're unwell, or that what they think and believe isn't real. This can leave them (and anyone who depends on them) at risk.
Caring for a loved one who is unwell but doesn't want to accept your help can be a challenge. It's normal to feel guilty or disloyal in this situation. But remember that your loved one isn't thinking properly. Right now, they're vulnerable to harm. When they're well again, they're likely to thank you for getting involved.
It can be hard to know how to react and how to help your loved one. You can get more information and advice from Talking Minds.
It's also important to look after yourself and seek help if needed.
Getting help
Call or make an appointment with the person's general practice team to talk about your concerns. If your friend or family member has become unwell, their general practice team can get them assessed by a mental health team.
You can contact the Mental Health Service directly if you're worried about the safety and health of someone who may be having a psychotic episode. Phone 0800‑920‑092 for Christchurch or 0800‑222‑955 for Ashburton.
The Early Intervention in Psychosis Service, Totara House, has a whānau (family) support group for the family of young people aged from 18 to 30 who are having a first episode of psychosis. If your family member is under the care of Totara House, you may be able to join this group.
Yellow Brick Road provides free support for whānau and support people of people with mental illness. This leaflet explains the services it offers in Canterbury.
Being a parent can be particularly challenging for someone who has a psychotic disorder. Read more about resources and support groups for children of parents with a mental illness or addiction, which can benefit the whole whānau.
Children Understanding Mental Illness is a school holiday programme that provides education, social activities and support for children with a family member who has a mental illness.
The Caroline Reid Family Support Service provides services for children in families affected by mental illness. They include the Children understanding mental illness programme, peer support, fun activities, information and advocacy.
HealthInfo recommends the following videos
- Talking Minds – Stories
People talk about their experience of psychosis.
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
- Te Whatu Ora Waitaha – How can I help?
This page explains where you can get help, how to relate to someone who is having a psychotic episode and other useful information.
- Talking Minds – Whānau and friends
Information targeted to whānau and friends. Start with Recognising the first signs and click through to learn more about ways to help, dealing with a crisis and resources for whānau.
On the next page: Psychosis in teens & young adults
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed September 2023.
SourcesReview key: HIPSY-124133
