The issue of confidentiality is often a sticky one between families and professionals. It might be helpful to ask your relative to sign a paper indicating that he or she gives permission for the release of information to you about his or her treatment, diagnosis, and prognosis. You can write out your own information release form or make a copy of the sample Authorisation for release of Confidential Information attached. When you obtain such a letter, it relieves professionals of having to worry about the legalities involved in releasing confidential information.

Of course, your relative may not be willing to co-operate. In such a case the staff is bound by law to maintain confidentiality. There are, however, ways in which the professionals involved can still give you information, if they are so inclined, such as by talking in generalities or with some degree of vagueness. For instance, a doctor who has just seen your son may tell you that often people who have these kinds of illnesses also have problems with drugs like cocaine, crack, marijuana or other substances. He/she may be trying to give you important information without violating a confidence told to him or her by your son.

On the other hand, the relationship between the social worker/therapist and patient must also be respected. If a person is paranoid or mistrustful, learning that his or her social worker/therapist has been talking to family members can mar their relationship. There are ways to handle this, if the professional believes it is important for the lines of communication to be open. Again, getting written consent in advance from your relative will increase the likelihood that professionals will share information with you. Try to obtain the consent when you and your relative are calm and on good terms.

There is also nothing wrong with calling a hospital or day Centre, or drop-in Centre and asking for a general progress report. Again, it helps if you have a written release of information letter from your relative. Do not be hesitant to call if the facility has not called you. It may be a busy place whose staff has not yet had a chance to call you. They also may not know that you exist. You do not want to nag them, but you do want the staff to know that you are concerned and want to be updated periodically so that you can be available to help with the treatment or care plan.