Important observations

After a really good spell, my son is starting to relapse.  How do I know? - he's much more withdrawn, stops going out, stays in his room with the curtains closed.  He starts to be suspicious of everybody - even me.  Maybe especially me, I'm always here.  Last night he smashed up the kitchen.  When I tried to get him to stop, he threatened  me.  And I think he's stopped taking his  medication.

Now I'm really worried...I worry he'll hurt someone.  Or maybe himself.  Last time this happened I tried to phone his consultant.  His secretary said that Dr A wouldn't talk to me, because of confidentiality.  But I think if they'd help him now, maybe it wouldn't be so bad in the long run - last time he was in hospital for months.  How can I get them to listen to me, help my son now? Next week, next  month, might be too late.                P, home carer for M, schizophrenia

It's like a revolving door, home for a while, then gradually all the good intentions fade.  Then relapse, long waiting lists, and hospital again.  Years and years my daughter has been ill.  When she comes home there's no follow up to see how she's doing.  I've never had any guidance about how I could help her.  It breaks my heart every time.  V, home carer for L, anorexia    

What can carers do in similar situations?