This study explores the experiences of people caring for, or supporting, relatives described as suffering severe mental illness. For the purposes of the research this has been defined as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder (manic depression). Qualitative method has been used to emphasise the powerful nature of the experiences that the subjects encountered. The study has innovatively used the researcher's own caring career which unfolded during her period of study registration. The difficulties and advantages of this approach have been examined within a feminist framework.The research also explores the experiences of a small number of carers of people with dementia as an aid to highlighting the particular needs of those supporting people with severe mental illhealth. The data is presented in terms of the carer's path through the mental health system. It traces the cyclical periods of despondency and hope that accompanying the service user's symptoms.Since the implementation of the NHS and Community Care Act 1990 family supporters of sick and disabled members have been afforded recognition as carers. Their often tireless provision of assistance, and their cooperation with statutory services are essential to the success of the policy of non-institutional care. Community Care has been put forward as the ideal for a whole range of service user groups, many of which were previously catered for in large hospitals. While it would appear prudent for the state to support people who perform this difficult and demanding task, at no cost to the tax payer, the study shows that carers' practical and emotional needs continue to be inadequately addressed. The experience of carers is conceptualised as attachment violation. Discussion explores the destructive dimension of severe mental illness which attacks people's relationships, cutting both users and carers off from support at a time when it is most needed. Carers found themselves dealing with distressing changes in their relative's behaviour, which might lead to the user and others being placed at risk. Despite this, carers' attempts to seek help from outside were often rebuffed.