It is every parent's hope that her child grow to be successful and independent. However, if your adult child has been diagnosed with a severe mental illness, it is possible that you have assumed the role of a caretaker in addition to parent. This can be a challenging and frustrating situation. Use the following suggestions to alleviate some of your stress.

Join a Support Group

In order to sufficiently care for your child, it is vital that you maintain your own mental stability. Because of the stigma associated with mental illness, it is often difficult to find support. According to psychologytoday.com, support groups can offer the support even when family members and friends do not seem to understand. Connecting to other parents with adult children with mental illness can serve to normalize your situation. Meeting with a support group regularly can facilitate conversation regarding common difficulties of parents living with mentally ill children. More importantly, it can serve as an excellent way to share ideas, strategies,and resources to help others in similar circumstances. Not only will you benefit from the knowledge of others, you will have the chance to enrich their lives with your wisdom. 

Mental Health Professional

In order for your adult child to increase independence,  it is pertinent that your family receive services from a trained mental health professional. A mental health professional, such as a social worker or counselor, can serve as an objective voice. Your worker can collect information about your child's symptoms to determine a baseline. Your worker then can make recommendations for you and your child based upon your child's level of functioning. For example, if your child is struggling to maintain activities of daily living, such as laundry or bathing, your worker might suggest posting a written reminder or schedule.  

Receiving Help

Caring for children into adulthood can be exhausting. Many of those who suffer from severe mental illness can have difficulty completing daily tasks. It can become very taxing for a parent to hold her adult child accountable for daily care or taking medications. In these situations, it can be become very beneficial to bring in help, such as a home health aide.  A home health aide can assist your child in taking daily medication in addition to light household chores. 

If you are living with an adult child with mental illness, it can be exhausting. Use these tips to find relief and help your child to live up to his full potential! 

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