The fifth class focuses takes the problem statement, completed in Class 4, through the Problem Solving Skills Workshop. This Workshop will present structure for the problem pile-up that often occurs in families living with mental illness. Participants will simplify and define the single most important problem, evaluate and use different solution strategies, and set appropriate limits.

Introduction

• Approaching problems methodically
• Strategies to manage the unique problems of a family living with mental illness

Why Are Problem Solving Skills Helpful?

• Hesitation to control another adult
• Management issues
• Stress issues
• What to do when previous standard solutions unravel
• Structure for repeated, competing crisis situations

Problem Solving Step #1: Defining the Problem

• Task 1: Picking one problem
• Task 2: Be Specific
• Task 3: Have you considered that the real problem may involve your own emotions?
• Task 4: Get consensus in the family

Sharing Our Problem Statements

• Recognizing the single most pressing problem
• Acknowledging that our emotions may have altered our perception of the problem

Problem Solving Step #2: Solving the Problem

• P: Evaluate past experience
• O: Generate options
• W: Plan for the "what if"s
• Class practice exercise

Problem Solving Step #3: Setting Limits

• Limiting our expectations
• Setting limits for our ill family member