We Believe:

* That the voices of families are important and we strive to amplify those of family caregivers supporting those with psychotic illnesses throughout Canada.

* That the treatment and care of those living with psychotic illnesses can and must be improved.

* As mental illnesses are the most debilitating, complex and expensive to treat, they need to stand alone and not be lumped in with discussions around, and funding for, “mental health.”

* Because of the stress in caring for someone living with mental illness, families also need help to navigate the system and to deal with the trauma.

* The family role must be recognized in a tangible way and not given lip service.

* That families as life-long caregivers must be accepted as partners in the treatment and care of their loved ones.

* The rights of those living with psychosis must be upheld, including the right to proper medical treatment. Early, effective treatment has been proven to provide the best outcomes, even if the individual's lack of awareness prevents them from understanding the need for treatment.

* That the legal and medical framework must more fully recognize the debilitating effects of delayed and withheld treatment, even when the patient isn’t fully aware.

* The framework for psychiatric treatment in Canada needs to be reformed to make it more humane and effective.

* The symptom of anosognosia (lack of Insight) must be recognized.

* Safeguards for those receiving treatment are inadequate without family involvement.

* Services for those with mental illness must be adequately funded and humanely implemented.