The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry notes that a parent's mental illness can present a variety of risks for a child. Schizophrenia, in particular, can contribute to highly unpredictable and confusing behavior in a household, and a child may often feel insecure and conflicted about his relationship with the affected parent. A child living with a schizophrenic parent may need a great deal of psychological and social support in order to develop successfully.
Step 1
Seek individual and family support from a psychiatrist. The AACAP notes that many children of parents with mental illness have a higher risk of developing mental illness themselves. An individual who is coping with or recovering from abuse is also at higher risk for depression, low self-esteem, and substance abuse. Seeking support and treatment from a psychiatric professional can help an individual manage any symptoms or difficulties that may arise from the patterns of abuse in the parental relationship. Professional support can also help the individual make decisions regarding the ongoing nature of the relationship with the parent.
Step 2
Develop friendships and interests outside of the family. According to the AACAP, children who live with mentally ill parents often benefit from engaging in outside activities and relationships. A child who is living with a mentally ill parent can often find success in school, sports, or a hobby in which they excel. As a child grows up into the teen and adult years, these same strengths and experiences can help him build stronger self-esteem and personal goals, which often help an individual cope with the damage that an abusive, mentally ill parent may cause.
Step 3
Consult with a professional who specializes in trauma recovery. According to Helpguide.org, children who experience abuse and mental illness in the home are likely to suffer from psychological and emotional issues specifically related to the trauma. Individuals often benefit from consulting with a specialist who works with trauma therapy techniques, such as eye Mmovement desensitization and reprocessing, a technique used to process traumatic memories.
Step 4
Develop healthy lifestyle habits. Experts at Healthguide.org note that individuals who have experienced serious trauma often suffer from serious physical symptoms, such as trembling, shaking, crying, or episodes of dizziness. Daily exercise and a healthy, balanced diet can be key to controlling the physical symptoms of anxiety or depression that often result from abusive relationships. It's also important to avoid excessive use of alcohol or drugs, as individuals who have experienced abuse and trauma are at higher risk for addiction.
