Uncontrollable Outbursts and Delusions in Mental Health

Q: Uncontrollable Outbursts and Delusions in Mental Health

Hello, Xiao Zhen： Your brother's condition is indeed better treated as early as possible, but since he lacks insight into his illness and is unwilling to seek medical attention, convincing him to go to the doctor has become a challenge. <br>You might try to persuade him to see a

Muttering to oneself, loudly cursing at the air, with involuntary twitching reactions in the head and feet?

Hello Doctor,
I have an older brother who is 39 years old.
Two years ago, at the end of the year, while he was still working, he had a dispute with a colleague over pursuing the same female employee, which led him to resign.
After that, he began to share some extremely absurd stories with me.
For example, he claimed that both he and that female colleague were being controlled by a terrorist organization, which used methods to prevent them from being together, and he asked me to help him pursue her.
He also suggested that my family and I had actually encountered members of this organization but had our memories erased, which is why we were completely unaware of these events.
He even mentioned that their love story had been written into a novel, and that celebrities who are part of this organization are aware of it, among other things.
My response has been to advise him that these events did not happen and to encourage him to talk to a psychiatrist.

A few months later, he stopped mentioning these stories, and everything seemed to return to normal.
He briefly worked at two different companies but began to complain about poor air quality or strong electromagnetic waves in the vicinity causing him headaches, which led him to resign.
This year, around mid-March, he started exhibiting unconscious behaviors such as mumbling to himself or even loudly cursing with vulgar language.
This behavior particularly occurs when he is driving, eating, or showering—essentially during moments of quiet or focus.
Since last week, in addition to the inappropriate language, he has also started shaking his head vigorously or stomping his feet.
Even in his sleep, he continues to mumble and stomp his feet.
When I ask him why he is behaving this way, he always gives the same answer: "The stupid guy is controlling me, that's why I'm like this." However, when I see him normally, he appears just like you and me.
His general responses and daily routines are like those of a normal person, and there are no signs of the aforementioned behaviors.

My brother is currently unemployed, and aside from family, he has no friends.
The elders in our family are very worried about this situation.
My family and I have urged him to see a doctor, but he is very resistant, insisting that he knows his own condition and that a doctor cannot help him.
This is a summary of the situation; I hope you can provide some insights.
Thank you!

Xiao Zhen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/06/02

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello, Xiao Zhen: Your brother's condition is indeed better treated as early as possible, but since he lacks insight into his illness and is unwilling to seek medical attention, convincing him to go to the doctor has become a challenge.
You might try to persuade him to see a doctor by discussing more general symptoms, such as potential insomnia issues, and see if you can use that as a reason for him to seek treatment.
Alternatively, if he feels significant stress due to these "interferences," you could suggest that he consult a physician to discuss how to manage and alleviate that stress.

Reply Date: 2017/06/02

More Info

It sounds like your brother is experiencing some significant mental health challenges that are manifesting in unusual behaviors and delusions. Based on the information you provided, it appears that he may be dealing with a serious mental health condition, possibly a psychotic disorder. The symptoms you describe, such as delusions of being controlled by a terrorist organization, talking to himself, and exhibiting involuntary movements, suggest that he may be experiencing a break from reality.

Understanding the Symptoms
1. Delusions: Your brother's belief that he and the female colleague are being controlled by a terrorist organization is a classic example of a delusion, which is a false belief that is strongly held despite evidence to the contrary. Delusions can be a symptom of various mental health disorders, including schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or severe mood disorders with psychotic features.

2. Disorganized Behavior: The behaviors you mentioned, such as talking to the air and using inappropriate language, can be indicative of disorganized thinking or behavior, which is often seen in psychotic disorders. This can also include unusual movements or mannerisms, such as shaking his head or stomping his feet.

3. Auditory Hallucinations: If he is hearing voices or feeling controlled by external forces, this could suggest auditory hallucinations, which are common in psychotic disorders. These experiences can be distressing and may lead to further isolation and withdrawal from reality.

Importance of Professional Help
It is crucial for your brother to seek professional help. Mental health conditions, especially those involving psychosis, can worsen over time without treatment. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Encourage Open Communication: Try to have a calm and supportive conversation with him about his experiences. Express your concern for his well-being without being confrontational. Let him know that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

2. Involve Trusted Individuals: If he is resistant to seeking help, consider involving other family members or friends whom he trusts. Sometimes, hearing encouragement from multiple sources can help him feel less isolated and more willing to seek treatment.

3. Explore Treatment Options: If he is open to the idea, suggest a visit to a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. They can provide a proper assessment and discuss treatment options, which may include therapy and medication.

4. Educate Yourself and Your Family: Understanding mental health conditions can help you and your family support him better. There are many resources available, including books, websites, and support groups for families dealing with mental illness.

5. Crisis Intervention: If his behavior escalates or if you feel he may be a danger to himself or others, it may be necessary to seek immediate help. This could involve contacting emergency services or taking him to a hospital for evaluation.

Conclusion
Mental health issues can be complex and challenging, both for the individual experiencing them and for their loved ones. It’s important to approach the situation with empathy and understanding. Encourage your brother to seek help, and be there to support him through the process. Remember, early intervention can lead to better outcomes, and there is hope for recovery with the right treatment and support.

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