How to Help a Loved One Refusing Mental Health Treatment?

Q: How to Help a Loved One Refusing Mental Health Treatment?

Hello： It seems that your brother's behavior may indicate issues with emotional regulation. <br>Whether this is a manifestation of bipolar disorder still needs further clarification. <br>If your brother is unwilling to seek medical attention, I recommend that you consult a physic

The individual is unwilling to seek medical treatment?

Hello Doctor, my brother has been exhibiting violent behavior.
When he disagrees with family members or his partner, he becomes emotionally agitated.
Initially, he would slam doors and throw things, but now he has started physically assaulting others.
He claims to regret his actions afterward, but he cannot control himself in the moment, and the frequency and intensity of his outbursts are increasing.
He experiences significant mood swings and sometimes expresses suicidal thoughts, often saying, "I would rather die; you all are forcing me." However, when he is in a stable mood, he appears completely normal.
I am wondering if this could be bipolar disorder.
We have suggested accompanying him to see a doctor, but he insists that he is not sick, and if we bring it up again, he becomes angry.
If the individual is unwilling to seek medical help, what can we do? Those around him are exhausted and hope he can return to normal soon.
Additionally, my grandmother and uncle both have mental illnesses; is there a possibility that this could be hereditary? Thank you for your response, Doctor.

Xiao Xiao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/05

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry

Hello: It seems that your brother's behavior may indicate issues with emotional regulation.
Whether this is a manifestation of bipolar disorder still needs further clarification.
If your brother is unwilling to seek medical attention, I recommend that you consult a physician at a mental health clinic (psychiatry department) for guidance on how to proceed (there are also liquid medications available if needed).
As for the hereditary aspect, it is best to wait until the diagnosis is confirmed before discussing it with the physician.

Reply Date: 2016/06/05

More Info

Helping a loved one who is refusing mental health treatment can be a challenging and emotionally taxing experience. In your case, your brother's violent behavior, emotional instability, and suicidal thoughts are serious concerns that require immediate attention. Here are some strategies you can consider to help him:

1. Open Communication
Start by fostering an open line of communication. Approach your brother when he is calm and in a good mood. Express your concerns without judgment. Use "I" statements to convey how his behavior affects you and the family. For example, "I feel worried when I see you upset and acting out," rather than "You need to stop being violent." This can help him feel less defensive and more willing to listen.

2. Educate Yourself and Him
Understanding mental health issues, such as bipolar disorder (formerly known as manic-depressive illness), can help you communicate more effectively. If you suspect he may have a mood disorder, share information about it in a non-confrontational way. You might say, "I read about how mood swings can affect people, and it seems like you might be experiencing something similar."

3. Encourage Professional Help
While he may deny needing help, you can gently encourage him to consider talking to a professional. Frame it as a way to improve his quality of life rather than as a treatment for a "problem." You might suggest, "Talking to someone could really help you manage your feelings better. It’s just like talking to a coach to improve in sports."

4. Involve Trusted Individuals
If there are family members or friends he trusts, consider involving them in the conversation. Sometimes, hearing concerns from multiple people can have a greater impact. However, be cautious to ensure that this is done in a supportive and non-confrontational manner.

5. Set Boundaries
If his behavior is affecting your well-being or the safety of others, it’s important to set clear boundaries. Let him know that while you care for him, you cannot tolerate violent behavior. This may encourage him to seek help to avoid losing relationships.

6. Crisis Plan
Given his suicidal thoughts, it’s crucial to have a crisis plan in place. This includes knowing who to contact in an emergency, such as a mental health crisis hotline or local emergency services. If he expresses suicidal thoughts, take them seriously and seek immediate help.

7. Family Support
Consider family therapy or support groups for yourself and other family members. This can provide you with coping strategies and a support network as you navigate this difficult situation.

8. Addressing Genetic Factors
Regarding your concerns about hereditary mental illness, research indicates that certain mental health conditions can have a genetic component. If your grandmother and uncle have mental health issues, it may increase the likelihood of similar challenges in your brother. However, genetics is only one factor; environmental influences and personal experiences also play significant roles.

Conclusion
Ultimately, while you can provide support and encouragement, the decision to seek help must come from your brother. It’s essential to prioritize your own mental health and well-being throughout this process. If he continues to refuse help, focus on maintaining your own support systems and coping strategies. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are resources available to help both you and your brother.

Similar Q&A

How to Help a Loved One with Delusional Disorder Who Refuses Treatment?

Hello Dr. Chen, I previously consulted you regarding my spouse's issues with delusional disorder, and I would like to seek your advice again. Based on my observations, my spouse seems to be frightened by some negative news from our neighbors. Additionally, the behavior of th...

Dr. Chen Wenyu reply Psychiatry
Hello Mike, Based on your description, it seems more like an environmental stress factor combined with a naturally suspicious personality, leading to an adjustment disorder rather than necessarily a delusional disorder. A definitive diagnosis still requires clinical evaluation....

How to Help Reluctant Family Members Seek Mental Health Treatment?

Hello, doctor! In the previous discussion, I saw your suggestion for family members to encourage the patient to seek medical treatment for her psychiatric symptoms, but my daughter is very resistant and distrustful. In fact, after being ill for twenty years, she once had a record...

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello, if you consult her previous physician, the medical records will contain her past symptoms and treatment history. Along with your description and the supplementary video, discussing treatment options with the physician should be a viable approach.

How to Help a Loved One Recognize Their Mental Health Issues

Hello doctor, my family member has mental health issues, including insomnia, panic attacks, paranoia, and auditory and visual hallucinations. When she experiences these episodes, we have taken her to see a psychiatrist, but she is very resistant to seeing a doctor. The doctor men...

Dr. Huang Weiqin reply Psychiatry
Hello: Based on your description of your family member, it is likely that they are experiencing hallucinations and delusions, which are symptoms of a psychotic disorder. It is recommended that family members encourage them to visit a nearby psychiatric outpatient clinic or emerge...

How to Encourage a Family Member to Seek Mental Health Treatment?

My sister has had communication issues since childhood, but we used to think it was just a phase of childhood stubbornness that our parents overlooked. However, now that she is an adult (20 years old), she remains indifferent, taciturn, avoids eye contact during interactions, and...

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry
Hello. You might consider the possibility that you are experiencing emotional distress and would like to visit a psychosomatic clinic to consult with a physician or therapist. However, you may feel hesitant to go alone and hope that your sister can accompany you. During your appo...