The objective was to investigate the perception of mental suffering in the family vision. Descriptive study with a qualitative approach held in June 2005, in a midsize psychiatric hospital. It was interviewed 15 relatives who accompanied the treatment and assistance in hospital. The speeches were submitted to content analysis, in thematic categories. In that sense, the families have demonstrated the knowledge of behavioral changes resulted from mental suffering and its beginning time. Also reported a distressing and difficult journey when searching for help, saying they don't know to whom or what to look for, appealing, initially, to magical-religious aid, and subsequently, to medical and scientific knowledge. Within the family environment, the conflicts exist and reinforce the commitment in interpersonal relationships and social ties. It is a challenge for mental health professionals to establish therapeutic relationships with family members of individuals with psychological distress, providing a redirection of care practices, especially, in health education.
Mental Disorders; Family; Psychiatric Nursing; Mental Health Services