Phase 6 – end of the caring role

Not everyone will reach all the stages of this program when they reach Phase 6: the end of the caring role.

The caring role can end for a number of reasons:

  • choice of the carer
  • choice of the person with the mental illness
  • the person with the mental illness passes away
  • the carer passes away
  • the person with the mental illness recovers

Depending on the reason for the caring role ending, carers may feel guilt; loss; anger; sadness; relief; pride; and joy at the recovery of the person with the mental illness.

Depending on the reason for the caring role ending, carers may need acknowledgement that sadness and relief can accompany the end of the role.

Carers may also need help in refocusing their life, finding support through:

  • counselling
  • career counselling
  • carer support groups
  • reconnecting with family, friends and community