TABLE 2.

Themes and sub-themes.

Theme	Sub-theme
1. Challenges experienced by family members	Difficult, uncooperative behaviour by MHCUs MHCU substance use Defaulting treatment Stigma because of mental illness Negative attitudes from the nursing staff Insufficient income to care for MHCUs
2. Coping mechanisms used by family members	Acceptance of MHCUs conditions Love and respect for MHCUs Effective continuous communication with MHCUs Prayer for coping Pastoral counselling enhance family members coping
3. Suggestions to improve family members coping mechanisms	More mental healthcare facilities are needed locally Families need intervention by the police.

MHCUs, mental health care users.