How to Help My Twin Sister with Her Mental Health Crisis?

My sister keeps going to the police station?

My sister has been feeling like someone is controlling her, and she has gone to the police station multiple times, causing disturbances with our landlord, employers, and family.
She frequently suspects that others want to harm her, and she can become very angry and aggressive, similar to how different people might react.
She often tells me that someone is advising her on what to do, which drives her into a frenzy.
She has called the police and left my number, and since we are twins, I want to help her.
However, when I'm at work, she comes to me causing chaos, going back and forth between the police station and the hospital, claiming she is going to die.
What should I do? She has sought medical help in the past but was later told she has no illness.
I have my own family and cannot continuously support her; her disturbances are affecting my household, and I feel lost on how to handle this.
She is unable to work and only asks me for money, which I cannot afford.
Should I consider involuntary hospitalization?

Juanjuan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/25

Dr. Zhang Zhehong reply Psychiatry

Hello, if your family member is suspected of having psychiatric symptoms, it is necessary to differentiate between physiological and mental disorders.
Please consult a nearby hospital with outpatient services and home treatment teams for a comprehensive approach.
Contact a hospital or public health nurse as soon as possible.
If a home assessment is arranged, the conditions for involuntary hospitalization must include self-harm or harm to others.
Wishing you the best of luck.

Reply Date: 2016/03/25

More Info

Helping a loved one, especially a twin sister, who is experiencing a mental health crisis can be incredibly challenging and emotionally taxing. Your sister's behavior, which includes paranoia, aggression, and erratic actions such as contacting the police and making threats, indicates that she may be experiencing a severe mental health issue that requires immediate attention. Here are some steps you can take to support her while also protecting your own well-being and that of your family.

Understanding the Situation
First, it’s crucial to recognize that your sister's behavior may stem from a mental health disorder, such as schizophrenia, severe anxiety, or a mood disorder. These conditions can lead to distorted perceptions of reality, causing individuals to feel threatened or paranoid. It’s essential to approach her situation with empathy and understanding, even when her actions are difficult to manage.

Encourage Professional Help
1. Seek Professional Evaluation: If your sister has previously been evaluated and deemed "not sick," it may be worth seeking a second opinion. Mental health conditions can be complex and may not always be apparent during a single evaluation. Encourage her to see a psychiatrist or a psychologist who specializes in severe mental health issues.

2. Consider Hospitalization: If your sister poses a danger to herself or others, it may be necessary to consider involuntary hospitalization. This can be a difficult decision, but safety is paramount. In many regions, if someone is a danger to themselves or others, you can contact local mental health services or emergency services for assistance.

3. Medication Management: If she is diagnosed with a mental health disorder, medication can be an essential part of her treatment. Encourage her to adhere to any prescribed medication regimen, as this can help stabilize her mood and reduce symptoms.

Communication Strategies
1. Open Dialogue: When communicating with your sister, try to remain calm and non-confrontational. Validate her feelings without necessarily agreeing with her perceptions. For example, you might say, "I understand that you feel scared and that people are out to get you. I want to help you feel safe."
2. Set Boundaries: It’s important to establish boundaries to protect your own mental health. Let her know that while you care for her, you cannot be her sole support system. Encourage her to seek help from professionals and other family members or friends.

3. Avoid Enabling Behavior: While it’s natural to want to help, be cautious not to enable her behavior. For instance, if she frequently demands money or resources, gently explain your financial limitations and encourage her to seek assistance from social services or community resources.

Self-Care for You
1. Seek Support: Caring for someone with a mental health crisis can be overwhelming. Consider seeking support for yourself through therapy or support groups for families of individuals with mental health issues. This can provide you with coping strategies and a safe space to express your feelings.

2. Maintain Your Routine: It’s essential to maintain your own life and responsibilities. Ensure you are taking care of your physical and mental health by engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

3. Educate Yourself: Understanding mental health conditions can empower you to better support your sister. Read up on her potential diagnosis and learn about effective communication strategies and coping mechanisms.

Conclusion
In conclusion, while it’s commendable that you want to help your twin sister, it’s crucial to recognize the limits of your ability to provide support. Encourage her to seek professional help, set clear boundaries, and prioritize your own well-being. Mental health crises can be complex and require a multifaceted approach, including professional intervention, family support, and self-care. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are resources available to help both you and your sister navigate this challenging time.

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