Family members often experience high anxiety, feelings of helplessness, and may be highly stressed in their role of providing support . Consider disruption to their work/ lifestyle/ other responsibilities, finance etc
Impacts of Illness
Psychological and Emotional
Anxiety and fear
Irritability and restlessness
Interpersonal withdrawal
Avoidance
Boredom
Depression
Labile affect and mood swings
Cognitive
Loss of sense of time
Impaired problem solving
Impaired attention
Impaired concentration, inability to organise thought
Memory problems or forgetfulness
Reduced motor coordination
Vivid sensory images and dreams
Presence of delusion, illusions or hallucinations
Confusion and disorientation
Sleep disturbance: excessive sleep, insomnia or sleep deprivation
Somatic complaints
Psychological Support
Assess client’s fear, anxiety, support systems and pattern of coping.
Establish trusting relationship with client and significant others.
Explain routine procedures, encourage verbalisation of fears, and allow client to ask questions.