How to Seek Help When Family Resists Mental Health Support?

Q: How to Seek Help When Family Resists Mental Health Support?

Hello, netizen： I suggest trying to communicate with your family again. <br>Inform them that the brain is unwell, and that symptoms such as depression and anxiety require medical attention, just like needing to see a doctor for a fever caused by the flu. <br>Additionally, you can

What should I do if my family is resistant to taking me to see a psychiatrist? What is my condition?

Due to family issues and friends, I learned to drink and self-harm in the second year of junior high.
Every night, I find myself thinking about many things and feeling that the world is unfair.
When I can't hold back my tears, I take a safety razor blade to cut my left arm.
This helps me feel calm, relieve stress, and relax.
However, I'm afraid that if this continues, I might sink deeper into it.
Now that I'm in the third year of junior high and about to enter senior high, I originally wanted to explain these things to my family, but they can't understand.
They see me as just a child, a kid without academic pressure, and they wonder why I would have a boyfriend, why I have thoughts of self-harm, and how self-harm can reduce suicidal thoughts.
I had these thoughts in the third and fourth grades of elementary school and mentioned them to my uncle, who laughed and told everyone how foolish I was.
After that, I stopped communicating with him.
But now my situation is getting worse—self-harm, overthinking, doubting others, easily getting angry, and feeling impatient.
I want to tell my family to take me to see a doctor, but I'm afraid my friends will find out, and I know my family won't take me.
What should I do? Do I have a mental illness, or am I just overthinking things?

lemon, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/14

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry

Hello, netizen: I suggest trying to communicate with your family again.
Inform them that the brain is unwell, and that symptoms such as depression and anxiety require medical attention, just like needing to see a doctor for a fever caused by the flu.
Additionally, you can seek help from a teacher.
Generally, teachers can arrange for counseling services through the guidance counseling centers for elementary and junior high school students, where a psychologist or psychiatrist can talk with you, assess your condition, and provide some recommendations.
Dr.
Wu Enliang

Reply Date: 2021/06/14

More Info

Navigating mental health issues within a family can be incredibly challenging, especially when family members resist seeking help. Your situation reflects a common struggle faced by many individuals who are dealing with emotional distress while feeling unsupported by their loved ones. Here are some strategies to consider when approaching this sensitive topic:

1. Understanding Your Feelings
First and foremost, it’s essential to acknowledge your feelings and experiences. Self-harm and thoughts of suicide are serious indicators of emotional distress, and it’s crucial to take them seriously. You are not alone in feeling overwhelmed, and it’s okay to seek help. Understanding that these feelings are valid can be the first step toward healing.

2. Finding the Right Words
When discussing your mental health with family, it’s important to communicate your feelings clearly and calmly. You might start by expressing how you feel without placing blame. For example, you could say, “I’ve been feeling really overwhelmed lately, and I think I need some support.” This approach can help your family understand that you are seeking help rather than accusing them of not being supportive.

3. Educating Your Family
Sometimes, family members resist the idea of mental health support because they lack understanding. Providing them with information about mental health issues can help demystify the topic. You could share articles, videos, or even suggest they accompany you to a mental health seminar. This education can help them see that mental health struggles are common and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

4. Seeking Support from Trusted Adults
If you feel that your family may not be receptive, consider reaching out to a trusted adult outside your family, such as a teacher, school counselor, or family friend. They can provide guidance and may even help facilitate a conversation with your family. Having an advocate can make a significant difference in how your family perceives your situation.

5. Utilizing School Resources
Many schools have mental health resources available, including counselors and support groups. If you’re in high school, take advantage of these resources. School counselors can provide a safe space to discuss your feelings and may also help you communicate with your family about your need for support.

6. Exploring Professional Help
If you feel comfortable, consider seeking professional help on your own. A mental health professional can provide you with coping strategies and support tailored to your needs. Therapy can be a safe space to explore your feelings and develop healthier coping mechanisms. If your family is resistant to the idea of therapy, you can still pursue it independently.

7. Creating a Safety Plan
If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, it’s crucial to have a safety plan in place. This plan can include identifying warning signs, coping strategies, and emergency contacts. Share this plan with someone you trust, so they can help you if you find yourself in crisis.

8. Building a Support Network
In addition to family, consider building a support network of friends or peers who understand what you’re going through. Sometimes, talking to someone who has experienced similar feelings can provide comfort and validation.

9. Practicing Self-Care
While seeking external support is important, don’t forget to practice self-care. Engage in activities that bring you joy, whether it’s art, music, sports, or spending time in nature. These activities can help alleviate stress and improve your mood.

Conclusion
It’s commendable that you are seeking help and trying to understand your feelings. Remember, mental health is just as important as physical health, and it’s okay to prioritize your well-being. While it may take time for your family to understand and accept your need for help, your well-being should always come first. Don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals who can guide you through this challenging time. You deserve support and care as you navigate your feelings and experiences.

Similar Q&A

How to Help a Family Member Struggling with Depression

Having a family member suffering from depression who refuses to seek medical help can be challenging. It is important to approach the situation with empathy and understanding. Here are some steps you can take: 1. Open Communication: Try to have an open and non-judgmental con...

Dr. Wang Zuoren reply Psychiatry
Hello. I apologize for only seeing your message today. Patients with depression often experience persistent low mood and lack of motivation to engage in activities, including social interactions and attending medical appointments. Additionally, patients frequently worry about bei...

Facing Family Crisis: Seeking Help for Mental Health Struggles

I'm really sorry to hear that you're feeling this way. It's very important that you talk to someone who can help you, such as a mental health professional or a trusted person in your life.

Dr. Lin Junyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello, it is great to hear that you have been consistently taking your medication recently, and the progress you've made over the past year has empowered you to support others. I believe you have the wisdom and capability to adapt to the upcoming changes in your life (your b...

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...

Coping with a Family Member's Mental Health Issues: Seeking Help and Support

My brother often takes out his anger on our parents. When he was younger, he experienced physical punishment from them, but that was only during elementary and middle school. He has held onto those memories and remains unfriendly towards them, refusing to communicate. He has used...

Dr. Zhan Jiaxiang reply Psychiatry
Hello, Xi: Regarding the concerns you mentioned, it would be advisable to encourage your brother to seek an evaluation at a nearby psychiatric clinic or mental health facility. There are many potential causes for poor mental health or emotional instability, and a clearer understa...