In this blog, Research Ambassador Ivyananda shares a message of hope and recovery for families supporting individuals living with psychosis.
‘When people hear the word psychosis, they often think of what they have seen in films, television programmes, or news headlines. Unfortunately, these portrayals are often inaccurate and contribute to fear, misunderstanding and stigma. As a Public Health Practitioner, Occupational Therapy student, and family member of someone who has experienced psychosis, I have come to understand that psychosis is not simply a condition that affects one individual. It affects entire families, relationships and support networks.
Psychosis can cause a person to experience difficulties distinguishing between what is real and what is not. This may include hearing voices, experiencing unusual beliefs, feeling suspicious of others, or becoming increasingly withdrawn from everyday life. For families, these changes can be confusing, frightening and heartbreaking.
I remember feeling overwhelmed when I first witnessed the impact of psychosis on someone I love. There were moments of fear, frustration and helplessness. Like many families, I found myself searching for answers while trying to support someone who was struggling to understand what was happening to them.
One of the biggest challenges families face is stigma. Mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression are increasingly discussed openly, yet psychosis and schizophrenia remain surrounded by misunderstanding. Many families suffer in silence because they fear judgement from others. This isolation can make an already difficult situation even harder.
What I have learned through both my personal and professional experiences is that recovery is possible. Recovery does not always mean the complete absence of symptoms. Instead, it means supporting people to live meaningful lives, participate in their communities, maintain relationships, and engage in activities that matter to them.
Early intervention and access to appropriate support can make a significant difference. Mental health services, occupational therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, support workers, peer support groups and community organisations all have important roles to play. Equally important is the role of families, who often provide ongoing emotional, practical and social support.
Occupational therapy has taught me the importance of helping people reconnect with everyday occupations. Simple activities such as cooking, exercising, volunteering, studying or returning to work can help rebuild confidence, structure and purpose. These activities are often essential components of recovery.
My message to families who may be supporting a loved one experiencing psychosis is this: you are not alone. Seek support, ask questions and remember that caring for yourself is just as important as caring for the person you love. Recovery can be a long journey, but hope remains one of the most powerful tools we have.
As a society, we must continue to challenge stigma, improve understanding and ensure that people living with psychosis and schizophrenia have access to the support they need. Behind every diagnosis is a person with hopes, dreams, strengths and potential.
Psychosis may be part of someone’s story, but it does not define who they are.’
Ivyananda,
Research Ambassador