Mental-health difficulties affect relationships and family systems, while family communication and support can influence recovery. Family work can range from focused education and problem-solving to structured family intervention or therapy.

What family work may address

• Understanding symptoms, treatment and relapse warning signs.
• Communication and problem-solving.
• Conflict, criticism, caregiver strain and unrealistic expectations.
• Supporting treatment while preserving appropriate independence.
• Crisis planning, safety and boundaries.
• Reintegration into education, work, family and community roles.

Family intervention in psychosis and schizophrenia

NICE recommends family intervention for families of people with psychosis or schizophrenia who live with or are in close contact with the person. It should have a supportive, educational or treatment function and include negotiated problem-solving or crisis-management work.

Consent and confidentiality

Family involvement should be planned with attention to the person’s preferences, capacity, confidentiality, age and safety. Families can still receive general education and support even when detailed confidential clinical information cannot be shared.

Family therapy is not about assigning blame

The goal is to understand interaction patterns and strengthen coping, communication and support—not to identify a family member as the cause of a psychiatric condition.

What family sessions may involve

• Clarifying each person’s understanding of the mental-health condition.
• Improving communication and reducing unhelpful conflict cycles.
• Agreeing practical responses to early warning signs or crises.
• Problem-solving around routines, treatment, work, study or caregiving.
• Supporting recovery while avoiding unnecessary overdependence.

Frequently asked questions

Does the whole family need to attend every session?

Not always. Who attends depends on the clinical goal, consent, relationships, age and who is meaningfully involved in care.

Can families ask for guidance even if the patient is not present?

Families can receive general education and guidance about support and safety. Sharing confidential patient information remains subject to consent, capacity, safety and applicable law.

Schizophrenia · Bipolar Disorder · Family & Caregiver Guidance · Editorial Policy

Clinical and regulatory sources

NICE CG178: Psychosis and schizophrenia in adults — family intervention
NICE CG185: Bipolar disorder — carer and family support

This information is for general education. Suitability for treatment requires individual assessment, informed discussion and consideration of alternatives, risks and current clinical circumstances.