Needs of families affected by mental illness.

1. To obtain the best outcomes for clients with mental illnesses, the needs of their families must also be assessed and addressed. One basic need is information. 2. Nurses can effectively teach clients and families many skills, including problem solving, parenting, coping with daily living and personal and family stressors, and effective communication. 3. Referring families to appropriate outside resources can provide them with a means of continuing support.