11.1.6  Reassurance

Mental health problems can be very unexpected and stressful. These problems may make your client and their relatives feel very uncertain about the situation; it is natural for everyone to expect support during this period. Reassurance from someone like you who knows what is happening and whom they can trust can be valuable to help them to get over a crisis situation. You should always provide reassurance where you can, for instance by informing your client and their family about the lack of harmful effects of medicines. However, it is best to avoid unrealistic reassurance in situations beyond your capacity.