As a researcher on the
topic of caregiving, I often come across the caregivers' recollections of their
moments of helplessness in the journey of caregiving.
This has been what was
felt by my extended family members when challenged with a Schizophrenic older
relative who once again refused to take medication, resulting in serious mood
swings and hallucination.
The feeling of
helplessness one encounters in the face of caring for someone with mental
illness is often multiplied by the little help, if any, that relevant hotlines
and institutions could provide.
The response from the
other end of the phone is always "Family Members have to do it" but when
family members are seeking help, it’s precisely because they are at a loss on
what to do next.
I came to realize that
caregivers caring for their mentally ill family members are perhaps one of the
most neglected ones, many have to suffer long term verbal abuse and even
physical violence afflicted by those they love and care. They need our help and continuous support too.
You can view our course
Psychosocial Wellness which covers the effects of social interactions and
psychology on the health and well-being of an individual to understand more.
There are also associations like Caregivers’ Association of the Mentally Ill (CAMI), Singapore Association for Mental Health whom one can approach for help or when Caregivers's are in need of hour. You can also visit them at http://www.cami.org.sg/ or https://www.samhealth.org.sg/caregiver-support/ for more information.
To know more you can
mail us at contact.sg@icare.life or call 1800 274 1724
Dr. Thang Leng Leng
Associate
Professor
National University of
Singapore (NUS)
(Writer is a member of
iCare Life Advisory Board)
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