Living with psychosis can be hard for both the affected person and the caregivers. Since the person loses their grip on reality, it becomes difficult for them to live a natural and happy life. As a result of the symptoms, they may not be able to have relationships with people around them. They may have unusual behaviors which are difficult to deal with. They also become suspicious of the people around them and develop delusional fears.
The caregivers may often find themselves exhausted dealing with their emotional outbreaks. Coping with psychosis is usually more difficult for the caregivers. They need to find coping strategies to make their life manageable. Both the patient and their caregivers may need to find out as much as they can about psychosis so that they can be prepared. This will also help the caregiver be more tolerant and understanding of the psychosis patient.
The care giver may also have to deal with feelings of guilt for having a normal life when their friend, relative or partner is dealing with a condition as difficult to manage as psychosis. It is important for the caregiver to find the right balance between their own life and caring for the patient. The patients suffering from psychosis are often not able to take care of themselves. Though temporary, there are phases when they need to be restrained or hospitalized. This may add the pressure on the caregiver.
During these times, it is important for the caregiver to strike a balance between their own life and their role as a caregiver. Maintaining your own interests may be very important, but you may find it hard to find the time. Some therapy can help the caregivers manage their own feelings and their life.
People who suffer from psychosis tend to lose interest in their life and it may be the caregiver’s job to keep them interested and motivated. This can go a long way in managing the condition. For this, the caregiver may have to be really motivated as well.
Try not to fall into the trap of self neglect. For both the patient and the caregiver, it is important to engage in the normal day to day activities to maintain some semblance of normalcy in their lives and their daily activities.