[Considering family commitments in the process of psycho-social rehabilitation]

The current transformation of psychiatric assistance has focused on the family as an important factor. This exploratory study had the objective to identify the family's overload produced by the relationship with the person who has mental problems. Thirteen families of hospitalized patients were interviewed. We have identified in their reports the overload of commitments that they experienced while treating the patient before/after the hospitalization, added to the lack of support given by the health system. The nursing professional has an opportunity of working with the family of the patient, helping to solve the problems and revealing the importance of reestablishing the patient's social network along the rehabilitation process.