Information for relatives
Relatives are an essential resource for young people with at-risk mental states. Their presence throughout the care process is a well-identified factor for a better prognosis. Their support, active listening and care, can reduce and alleviate the difficulties that the young face in daily life.
Nevertheless, supporting a young person with an at-risk mental state can be challenging. People sometimes wonder whether certain changes are related to adolescence or whether they should alert them.
Learning to recognise the warning signs and symptoms enables access to early detection and timely and adapted care.
Thus, at-risk mental states can induce changes in behaviour that can, for example:
· disrupt daily life ;
· disrupt relationships with others, potentially leading to conflict or estrangement;
· disrupt activities and the implementation of joint projects.
These situations can easily lead to frustrations and suffering among relatives.
It is therefore essential that the relatives of a young person suffering from an at-risk mental state can also be listened to and receive support and personalised guidance.
A better understanding of the impact of mental disorders on behaviour is essential to maintain the links between the young person at risk and those around him/her.