Following the Bondi Junction attacks, devastated father, Andrew Cauchi told media he had done “everything in his power” to help his son who had a long history of mental illness. Mr Cauchi said he was “heartbroken” for all involved, describing his son as a “very sick boy.”

In the aftermath of these tragic events, attention is drawn to both the role and impacts on families managing mental health conditions.

According to the University of Queensland 240 000 family members and friends provide informal care to a close relation over 16, living with mental illness.

So, how are families supported as part of a  system? And just how multifaceted is complex mental health management?

If this story causes distress  help is available: Lifeline  131 114 or Beyond Blue 1300 224 636.

Produced By: Emma Wotzke

Featured In Story: Sarah Wayland – Associate Professor and Discipline Lead Social Work at the University of New England

First aired on The Wire, Thursday 25th April 2024