Seeking Help for a Family Member with Bipolar-Like Symptoms

Q: Seeking Help for a Family Member with Bipolar-Like Symptoms

Hello： The situation you mentioned is indeed one of the most common issues faced by families dealing with psychiatric conditions, where the patient lacks insight into their illness and is unwilling to seek treatment. <br>If the behavior is not severe enough to pose a risk of self

Family members exhibit symptoms similar to bipolar disorder?

Hello, Director Yan.
I have a family member who exhibits symptoms similar to bipolar disorder but has run away from home.
They return home sporadically, throwing things around.
When we had to forcibly take them to the hospital, they verbally abused the police and social workers.
However, after evaluation by the physician, they did not meet the criteria for involuntary treatment and ran away again.
The patient believes they are ill and keeps seeking doctors, frequently visiting the emergency room, but complains that the doctors speak harshly and have a bad attitude.
When they leave home, they often get into arguments with others and occasionally ask the family for money, claiming they spend it all on medical expenses.
However, reviewing the credit card statements shows they are buying clothes and other unnecessary items, leading to accumulating bills.
Sometimes they even mention suicide.
A few days ago, they returned home and caused a scene, and despite family members trying to help, they refused to listen and raged for half an hour.
Eventually, the family had no choice but to let them go.
Could you please advise us on what resources we can seek for help? Thank you.

Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/31

Dr. Yan Congyou reply Psychiatry

Hello: The situation you mentioned is indeed one of the most common issues faced by families dealing with psychiatric conditions, where the patient lacks insight into their illness and is unwilling to seek treatment.
If the behavior is not severe enough to pose a risk of self-harm or harm to others, involuntary hospitalization is not an option.
However, there are community mental health resources available.
You can reach out to your local health department to inquire which hospitals in your community are responsible for this service, and then apply for community assessment and treatment, where a physician will come to your home for evaluation and discussion.

Reply Date: 2020/10/31

More Info

Dealing with a family member exhibiting symptoms akin to bipolar disorder can be incredibly challenging, especially when their behavior becomes erratic and they resist help. It sounds like your family member is experiencing significant distress, and their actions—such as leaving home, arguing, and mismanaging finances—are concerning. Here are some steps you can take to seek help and support for your loved one.

Understanding the Situation
First, it's essential to recognize that individuals with bipolar disorder or similar mood disorders may not always be aware of their condition or may refuse to accept that they need help. This denial can lead to a cycle of erratic behavior, impulsivity, and conflict with family members and authorities. The symptoms you're describing—such as impulsive spending, verbal outbursts, and suicidal ideation—indicate that your family member is in a state of crisis and requires immediate attention.

Seeking Professional Help
1. Consult a Mental Health Professional: If your family member is resistant to treatment, consider reaching out to a mental health professional yourself. They can provide guidance on how to approach the situation and may suggest interventions that can help your loved one. This could include therapy options, medication management, or even family counseling to help you cope with the stress of the situation.

2. Emergency Services: If your family member poses an immediate threat to themselves or others, do not hesitate to call emergency services. In many regions, mental health crises can be addressed by specialized crisis intervention teams that can provide immediate care and assessment.

3. Involuntary Commitment: If your family member's behavior is severely impacting their safety and well-being, you may need to explore the possibility of involuntary commitment. This process varies by location but generally involves a legal mechanism to ensure that individuals receive the care they need when they cannot make that decision for themselves. Consult with local mental health services or legal advisors for guidance on this process.

Support for the Family
1. Educate Yourself: Understanding bipolar disorder and its symptoms can help you communicate more effectively with your family member and other professionals. Resources like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) provide valuable information and support for families dealing with mental health issues.

2. Establish Boundaries: While it’s crucial to support your family member, it’s equally important to set boundaries to protect your own mental health. This might mean limiting financial support or being clear about what behaviors are unacceptable.

3. Support Groups: Consider joining a support group for families of individuals with mental health issues. These groups can provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community with others who understand your struggles.

4. Self-Care: Caring for someone with a mental health condition can be draining. Make sure to take time for yourself, engage in activities that bring you joy, and seek support from friends or professionals when needed.

Encouraging Treatment
1. Open Communication: When your family member is in a calmer state, try to have an open and non-confrontational conversation about their behavior and the importance of seeking help. Emphasize your concern for their well-being rather than focusing on their symptoms.

2. Involve Trusted Individuals: Sometimes, hearing concerns from a trusted friend or family member can make a difference. If there are people in your family member's life who they respect, consider involving them in the conversation about seeking help.

3. Explore Different Treatment Options: If your family member has had negative experiences with certain doctors or treatment settings, help them explore other options. Sometimes, finding the right therapist or psychiatrist can make a significant difference in their willingness to engage in treatment.

Conclusion
Navigating the complexities of a family member's mental health crisis is undoubtedly challenging. It requires patience, understanding, and a proactive approach to seeking help. By utilizing available resources, establishing boundaries, and encouraging open communication, you can create a supportive environment that may help your loved one find the treatment they need. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and seeking help for yourself is just as important as seeking help for your family member.

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