| The purpose of this study was to explore how family members coped with caring for a family member diagnosed with severe mental illness (SMI). A qualitative method was utilized to interview 10 participants who were providing care for a family member diagnosed with a severe mental illness.;A majority of the participants reported that providing care has had a negative impact on their lives, specifically with emotional challenges and lack of support services for their family member diagnosed with a serious mental illness and themselves. In terms of coping most participants reported using the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) as their main source of support and education.;Implications show the need for social work professionals to provide education, support, advocacy, and resources for individuals providing care for a family member diagnosed with severe mental illness. |
