Phase 3: Adjustment

Phase 3 of the Phases of Caring is adjustment and readjustment to the mental illness. In this phase you adjust your life to meet the needs of caring. For many families, conflict can arise due to different ways of dealing with the situation.

What this phase is like
What this phase is like
There is a realisation that life will not be the same as it was before the onset of the illness. Treatment begins and there is a period of change and reaction for everyone involved. Attempts are made to ‘fix’ the illness, and families are vulnerable to drifting apart; social isolation may occur.
Common emotions
Common emotions
It’s common for carers to feel a wide range of emotions during this time: fear, anger, frustration, acceptance, hope, grief, worry, compassion, love, guilt, denial, jealousy and sadness are all common emotions.
Carers' needs
Carers' needs
Many carers struggle in this phase with their caring role and require: information on grief and loss; positive coping strategies; an explanation of the benefits of carer education programs; respite options; assistance with referrals to services. Contact Carers Queensland on 1800 242 636 to find out more.