A model project for families of the chronically mentally ill.

As a result of deinstitutionalization, families are frequently the primary caretakers of chronically mentally ill relatives. These families report a variety of stresses. La Frontera Center, Inc., a comprehensive community mental health center in Tucson, Arizona, is currently addressing the needs of these families through the Family Support Project. Families in this project have learned how to enhance the lifestyles of their ill family members as well as their own lifestyles by working in groups and focusing on distinct goals.