The purpose of this study was to explore how family members coped with caring for a family member diagnosed with severe mental illness (SMI). A qualitative method was utilized to interview 10 participants who were providing care for a family member diagnosed with a severe mental illness.

A majority of the participants reported that providing care has had a negative impact on their lives, specifically with emotional challenges and lack of support services for their family member diagnosed with a serious mental illness and themselves. In terms of coping most participants reported using the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) as their main source of support and education.

Implications show the need for social work professionals to provide education, support, advocacy, and resources for individuals providing care for a family member diagnosed with severe mental illness.