How to Handle a Relative Showing Signs of Mental Illness?

A relative is suspected of having schizophrenia and often warns us not to... What should we do?

The son of a relative lives upstairs (5th floor).
A few months ago, he started making noise at night, banging things around, and we can all hear it.
He often runs down to the 4th floor, and when the door is unlocked, he just stands there with a fierce look until someone notices him before he speaks.
If the door is locked, he bangs on it forcefully until someone opens it.
He warns us, saying, "XXX, don’t make noise with your things! Stop yelling! It’s so loud..." He accuses us of stealing his belongings.
When his things go missing, he claims that someone is installing surveillance cameras to watch him, or he says he wants to see us, and then he leaves.
He mentioned in the past that it was actually a teacher who took his woodworking projects, but he told me, "You know, I actually burned them." All of these are warning signs...
Due to long-standing conflicts among the elders living in the same building, my father says he is not sick, while my mother says to ignore it.
The relative's biological mother has passed away, and his father is not very caring towards him and even speaks ill of us, as does his stepmother.
What can I do...
Should I take him to the hospital for treatment? When he questions my mother, she directly responds that he must have misheard.
Is it dangerous? When he expresses such statements, the elders do not intervene, but the children in our home are very scared of him.
How should we respond...

jamie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/20

Dr. Zhang Zhehong reply Psychiatry

1.
If the individual has trusted family members, they can suggest seeking medical attention through a caring approach using less sensitive language (such as citing emotional distress, insomnia, etc.).
Mentioning mental illness may be difficult for the individual to accept.

2.
If the individual is suspected to have a mental illness but refuses treatment and does not meet the criteria for involuntary hospitalization, one can inquire with local healthcare facilities about the availability of home treatment services (typically initiated by family members, and those with unclear diagnoses may need to pay out of pocket).
3.
If the individual exhibits bizarre thoughts and unusual behaviors that disconnect them from reality, making them unable to manage their affairs, and there is a strong suspicion of severe mental illness, especially if violent behavior is present, it is necessary to report to the police or fire department under the Mental Health Act.
If it is found that the individual poses a risk of harm to themselves or others, the local health authority (usually the health bureau) should be notified, and assistance in handling the situation may be requested.
Unless otherwise stipulated by law, the individual should be escorted to the nearest appropriate medical facility for treatment.
This is referred to as involuntary treatment; however, after involuntary treatment, two psychiatric specialists must determine if the individual is severely ill, and a review is required to decide whether to approve involuntary hospitalization.
At that time, the individual's father will need to provide relevant medical information to assist in the review.

Reply Date: 2016/05/20

More Info

Dealing with a relative who shows signs of mental illness can be challenging and distressing, especially when their behavior poses a risk to themselves or others. In your situation, it appears that your relative is exhibiting concerning behaviors such as nighttime disturbances, aggressive knocking, paranoia about being watched, and delusions regarding past events. These symptoms may indicate a serious mental health issue that requires professional intervention.

First and foremost, it is essential to approach the situation with empathy and understanding. Mental illness can manifest in various ways, and individuals experiencing these symptoms often feel frightened, confused, and isolated. Here are some steps you can take to address the situation:
1. Assess the Situation: Observe your relative's behavior closely. Take note of any patterns or triggers that seem to exacerbate their symptoms. This information can be valuable when discussing their condition with a mental health professional.

2. Communicate Calmly: If you feel safe doing so, try to engage your relative in a calm and non-confrontational manner. Express your concern for their well-being without being accusatory. For example, you might say, "I've noticed you've been feeling upset lately, and I'm here to help if you need someone to talk to."
3. Encourage Professional Help: It’s crucial to encourage your relative to seek professional help. You can suggest that they visit a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, who can provide a proper assessment and treatment plan. If they resist, you might consider discussing the possibility of involving a trusted family member or friend who can help facilitate this process.

4. Involve Family Members: Since you mentioned that your relative's parents have differing views on his condition, it may be helpful to have a family meeting to discuss the situation openly. This can help ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding the need for intervention and support.

5. Safety First: If your relative's behavior escalates to the point where you feel unsafe or believe they may harm themselves or others, it is crucial to take immediate action. This may involve contacting local mental health crisis services or emergency services. In many areas, mental health professionals can conduct assessments and determine if hospitalization is necessary for the safety of the individual and those around them.

6. Educate Yourself: Understanding mental health conditions can help you respond more effectively. Familiarize yourself with common mental health issues, their symptoms, and potential treatments. This knowledge can empower you to provide informed support to your relative.

7. Support for Yourself: Caring for someone with mental health issues can be emotionally taxing. Consider seeking support for yourself, whether through counseling, support groups, or talking to trusted friends or family members. It’s important to take care of your own mental health as well.

8. Create a Safe Environment: If your relative is living in close proximity, ensure that your home environment is safe for everyone. This may involve setting boundaries regarding their behavior and ensuring that children in the household are protected from any distressing interactions.

9. Be Patient: Change may not happen overnight. Mental health treatment can take time, and your relative may have ups and downs throughout the process. Patience and ongoing support can make a significant difference in their recovery journey.

In conclusion, addressing the signs of mental illness in a relative requires a compassionate and proactive approach. Encouraging professional help, ensuring safety, and maintaining open lines of communication are vital steps in supporting your relative while also protecting your family. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are resources available to help both you and your relative navigate these challenges.

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