Family Mental Health Initiative

Coping Tips for Family Members & Friends

• Set aside personal time for yourself. 
• Do not take your family member’s/friend’s illness personally. The symptoms and behaviours are beyond their control and yours. 
• Protect yourself from burnout. Practice stress management. Build a strong network for yourself. 
• Put humour, physical activity, and fun in your life. Stay balanced. 
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Caregivers Bill of Rights

I have the right… 

• To take care of myself. This is not an act of selfishness. It will give me the capability of taking better care of my seriously mentally ill relative/friend. 

• To seek help from others even though my relative/friend may object. I recognize the limits of my own endurance and strength. 

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A Supportive System

Simcoe County Family Members & Friends List the Elements They Would Like to See in a Mental Health System That is Family-Supportive *compiled from the “Families Talking, Learning and Supporting” Conference 2007