While hearing voices is a relatively common human experience and not necessarily linked to distress, for some people it can be part of an overwhelming experience that can – for a time, at least, dominate their lives. While we often focus on the experience of the person going through this themselves, we don’t always give enough space for the friends and family members who may ill be equipped to walk alongside their loved one in their time of crisis. Though everyone is different, many friends and family members talk about feeling stuck in a maze without a map – desperately wanting to do the best for their loved one, but worried that what they say – or do – may make things worse.
This one-day workshop provides a supportive space for people to come together with others who know what it’s like to support someone through intense experiences. It will explore: different ways of making sense of voices, visions and overwhelming experiences; the impact of these experiences on friends, family & other loved ones; navigating conversations around unusual beliefs & experiences; practical ways of supporting a loved one through a crisis; coping strategies; steps towards ‘recovery’, self-care and knowing our own limits.
This workshop is free and open to anyone who identifies as ‘friend or family’ of someone with these experiences.
Sign-up is required at 413.539.5941 x 301 or by emailing us directly by clicking here.
For more details, check out this Newsweek article or Rai’s own website.
Rai is also offering some Connecticut workshops, but unfortunately, the application period for them (a two-day workshop on ‘Taboo and Violence Voices,’ ‘Working with People in Prison and Forensic Settings who Hear Voices,’ ‘Working with Paranoia & Unusual Beliefs,’ and ‘Working Alongside: Supporting Family Members Who Have Voices’) is now closed; but you can learn more about upcoming events by visiting the Connecticut Hearing Voices Network website here.