Identifying my role

As a family member of a person with a mental illness, you have different needs and roles to play, including that of Client, Assistant and Partner, as outlined in the CAP Model.

CLIENT : When you live with someone who has a mental illness, it is normal to experience many emotions, including stress, anger, grief, guilt and shame. It can make you feel distressed and discouraged. Your health is important, and you have the right to ask for help. Don’t hesitate to see yourself as a client of the health care system.

ASSISTANT : Your involvement in your loved one’s recovery makes you a key intermediary. Your knowledge of their daily life and routines is invaluable in providing guidance to their caregivers. The treatment team may consider you an assistant to their work and to your loved one’s recovery.

PARTNER : You can also participate in the organization of mental health services and act as a partner. For example, you can get involved with your local organization for family and friends of a loved one with a mental illness.
To learn more about the roles you can play, see the list of websites provided at the bottom of the page. You can also contact us for UNFILTERED HELP and guidance on your roles.

Things to remember

As a family member of someone with a mental illness, you have many different needs. You can also play many different roles.

First, as a client, you can ask for help managing your emotions.

You are also an assistant to your loved one and can interact with the treatment team.

You can also be a partner by getting involved in the organization of mental health services.

In any case, please only take on the roles you feel comfortable with. We will be glad to help you with that.