Understanding Psychosis
Psychosis is a mental health condition that affects a person’s ability to perceive reality accurately. It often involves hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that other people around cannot see or hear) and delusions (strongly held false beliefs). Psychosis can be a symptom of conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression. In Nigeria, mental health challenges, including psychosis, are often misunderstood, leaving families overwhelmed and struggling to support their loved ones effectively.

The Family’s Burden: Emotional, Financial, and Social Strain
When a family member experiences psychosis, the entire household is affected. Parents, siblings, spouses, and even extended family members often take on caregiving roles that can be physically, emotionally, and financially exhausting.

For example, a Yoruba mother in Lagos who has a son with schizophrenia may find herself constantly worried about his unpredictable behavior. She might struggle with his refusal to take medication, his sudden aggression or disrespect towards elders, or his belief that she is part of a conspiracy against him. This emotional strain can lead to anxiety, depression, and even burnout in caregivers.

Financially, families bear a significant burden. Mental health care in Nigeria is largely underfunded, and access to psychiatrists, psychotherapy, or pharmacotherapy (medication) is limited. A Hausa father in Kano, whose daughter experiences severe psychotic episodes, might have to travel long distances for psychiatric care, purchase costly medication, and even miss work to care for her. The financial stress can push families into poverty or force them to seek alternative treatments that may not be effective.

Socially, families often face stigma from their communities. A woman in Jos whose husband has psychosis maybe disoriented when she finds that neighbors avoid them, employers hesitate to hire her because of their concerns concerning her full commitment to work responsibilities, and even family members suggest supernatural causes instead of medical help. The shame and secrecy surrounding psychosis led many families to hide their struggles, further isolating them.

Common Challenges Faced by Families

1. Stigma and Misconceptions: Many believe that psychosis is caused by witchcraft or spiritual attacks, leading families to seek help from religious leaders rather than medical professionals.
   
2. Lack of Information: Families often do not understand psychosis, making it difficult to provide the right support.
   
3. Limited Mental Health Services: With a ratio of one psychiatrist per one million Nigerians, professional help is scarce, especially in rural areas.
   
4. Emotional Burnout: Constant caregiving can lead to stress, resentment, and exhaustion.

Supporting Families: Interventions and Solutions
Addressing the needs of families caring for a loved one with psychosis requires a multi-faceted approach.

1. Psychoeducation awareness Programs: To teach families and the community about psychosis, its causes, and management strategies can help reduce fear and misinformation. NGOs like Idimma Health Initiative have facilitated community workshops, and training on trauma-informed care for lay counsellors. These programs equip families and the community at large with coping strategies.
   
2. Family Support Groups: Creating safe spaces for families to share their experiences, seek advice, and receive emotional support can be life changing. A mother in Kaduna attending a support group may find comfort in knowing she is not alone in her experiences.
   
3. Financial and Social Support: Government and private organizations should establish mental health funds or subsidized care for low-income families.
   
4. Advocacy and Policy Change: Greater investment in mental health care and anti-stigma campaigns can reduce discrimination and improve access to professional help.

Caring for a loved one with psychosis is a journey filled with challenges but also opportunities for growth and resilience. With the right knowledge, support, and interventions, families can move from fear and confusion to empowerment and hope. In Nigeria, where mental health struggles are still widely misunderstood, we must continue to push for a system that values, educates, and supports those who bear the weight of caregiving. By acknowledging the realities faced by families, we can create a more compassionate and informed society that leaves no one behind.