Navigating Mental Health Challenges: Seeking Help for a Parent's Struggles

Q: Navigating Mental Health Challenges: Seeking Help for a Parent's Struggles

Hello： Your mother's issues may indeed require proactive medical attention. <br>Since she is seeking psychiatric care, I hope you can accompany her to the appointment (preferably at a hospital-level psychiatric facility). <br>Take this opportunity to consult with the physician ab

My mother is the landmine in the family?

Doctor, I would like to ask about my mother.
She has severe bipolar disorder, depression, and alcohol addiction.
She does not acknowledge her condition and when she visits a psychiatrist, she only claims to have difficulty sleeping.
She has been drinking heavily for five to six years, which has caused immense psychological stress for our family.
She often becomes irrational and blames others, yet does not believe she is at fault.
She frequently brings up incidents from a long time ago, even though she currently only needs to spend money and does not have to earn it.
She often threatens suicide and expresses her emotions on me.
I am only 17 years old and carry a lot of emotional scars from this situation.
I am afraid that I might also be developing a problem (I feel a bit that way).
After she sobers up, she forgets her actions and her reactions and thoughts are becoming increasingly sluggish.
Is this due to alcohol addiction? There is frequent domestic violence, and I want to report it but I am afraid.
The school social worker has been involved since elementary school, but there has been no follow-up.
I want to force her to seek medical treatment.
What should I do?

A Xiong, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/11

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry

Hello: Your mother's issues may indeed require proactive medical attention.
Since she is seeking psychiatric care, I hope you can accompany her to the appointment (preferably at a hospital-level psychiatric facility).
Take this opportunity to consult with the physician about coping strategies (including alcohol cessation, psychiatric symptoms, and the timing for involuntary hospitalization, etc.).
Additionally, it would be beneficial to maintain contact with a public health nurse at the local health department to inform them of your mother's condition.
This will allow for monitoring and follow-up to facilitate her medical care, ensuring she receives appropriate treatment while also alleviating the burden and stress on you as a family member.

Reply Date: 2016/09/11

More Info

Navigating the complexities of a parent's mental health challenges, especially when they involve severe conditions like bipolar disorder, depression, and alcohol addiction, can be incredibly overwhelming. As a 17-year-old, it’s commendable that you are seeking help and looking for ways to support your mother while also taking care of your own mental health. Here are some steps and considerations that may help you in this difficult situation.

Understanding the Situation
Your mother's refusal to acknowledge her mental health issues is a common barrier in situations involving mental illness. Many individuals suffering from mental health disorders, particularly those involving substance abuse, may not recognize the severity of their condition. This denial can stem from stigma, fear, or a lack of understanding about their illness. It’s important to approach this situation with empathy, recognizing that her behavior is likely influenced by her mental health struggles.

Seeking Professional Help
1. Involve a Professional: Since you mentioned that school social workers have been involved, it might be beneficial to reach out to them again. They can provide guidance on how to approach your mother about seeking treatment. They may also have resources or connections to mental health professionals who can intervene.

2. Consider an Intervention: If you feel safe doing so, consider organizing a family intervention with the help of a mental health professional. This can provide a structured environment where your mother can hear from loved ones about their concerns and the impact of her behavior on the family.

3. Emergency Services: If your mother is expressing suicidal thoughts or engaging in self-harm, it is crucial to take these statements seriously. In such cases, contacting emergency services or a crisis hotline can be a necessary step to ensure her safety.

Communicating with Your Mother
When discussing her mental health, try to approach the conversation with compassion rather than confrontation. Here are some tips:
- Use “I” Statements: Express how her behavior affects you personally. For example, “I feel scared when you talk about hurting yourself,” rather than “You need to stop saying that.”
- Avoid Blame: Focus on your concern for her well-being rather than blaming her for her actions. This can help reduce defensiveness.

- Provide Information: Sometimes, sharing information about mental health and addiction can help. You might mention that many people with similar struggles have found help through therapy or support groups.

Taking Care of Yourself
It’s essential to prioritize your mental health during this challenging time. Here are some strategies:
1. Seek Support: Consider talking to a trusted adult, such as a teacher, counselor, or family member, about your situation. They can provide emotional support and guidance.

2. Engage in Self-Care: Make sure to take time for yourself. Engage in activities that you enjoy and that help you relax, whether it’s sports, art, reading, or spending time with friends.

3. Educate Yourself: Learning about mental health and addiction can empower you and help you understand what your mother is going through. This knowledge can also help you communicate more effectively with her and others involved.

Legal and Safety Considerations
If your mother’s behavior escalates to violence or if you feel unsafe, it’s important to consider your safety first. You have the right to protect yourself, and if that means involving law enforcement, it may be necessary.

Conclusion
Navigating your mother’s mental health challenges is undoubtedly difficult, especially at your age. Remember that you are not alone in this, and there are professionals who can help both you and your mother. It’s crucial to approach the situation with empathy while also ensuring that you take care of your own mental health. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and advocating for your mother’s well-being is a brave step.

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