Mindfulness practices can help us deal with the stress that understandably arises from trying to navigate psychosis with our loved one. NAVIGATE’s Mindfulness initiative is an 8-week class for families involved in coordinated specialty care programs, offering training and mentorship around the power of mindfulness in building resiliency, patience, and clarity.
A Family Peer Partner, Keela, shares her thoughts from the perspective of a parent, and someone who has also experienced psychosis.
“It’s okay to not fully understand ‘Why’ … just getting through the crisis and getting support now is the first step.”
After all, the well-being of caregivers and family members is critically important as well. Mindfulness practice involves practicing skills like resilience, patience, endurance, clarity and creativity – and learning these skills can empower you to feel more present, calm, and focused. There are numerous studies showing the benefits of Mindfulness. For example, “fostering self-care for helping professionals, and a catalyst for going beyond the profession’s focus on pathology to include positive growth and development” 1.
“I always finish the [Mindfulness] class calmer than when I started … it really helped me think about mindfulness more often and incorporate it into my daily life.” – Family member
This Mindfulness initiative offers groups that are available for NAVIGATE participants, families, and team members. There is a beginner series and then Continuing Practice groups, so folks can “drop in” when the interest or need arises.The idea is to support the whole network of folks who are supporting a young person experiencing mental health challenges. Stay tuned for a Mindfulness retreat coming in 2024!
Please email Cathy Adams for more information: adams@etchwellness.org
- Shapiro, S. L., & Carlson, L. E. (2009). The art and science of mindfulness: Integrating mindfulness into psychology and the helping professions. American Psychological Association. https://doi.org/10.1037/11885-000 ↩︎