Addressing Mental Health Concerns in a Family Member After Illness

There is a suspected mental illness patient in the household?

The father at home underwent surgery for cancer last year and is currently resting at home.
Over the past two months, due to irregular medication use and abnormal eating and sleeping patterns, he has begun to exhibit unstable mental health.
He often alternates between crying and normal conversation, does not recognize anyone or is very indifferent, refuses to engage in conversation, is stubborn and does not listen to advice, frequently leaves the house in the middle of the night, has completely disorganized thoughts making communication impossible, and is buying unnecessary items, which has caused concern and distress for the family.
He has no prior history of mental illness and is unwilling to seek medical treatment.
I would like to ask the doctor if there are any solutions or relevant treatment options available.

Liu Yongfeng, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/05/30

Dr. Yu Quanxun reply Psychiatry

Caring for cancer patients requires attention to multiple aspects, and your role as a family member is indeed challenging.
Based on your description, your father has no prior history of mental illness and has a record of cancer and surgery.
Given that the symptoms appeared suddenly, the primary suspicion is that they may be caused by physiological issues (such as delirium or other brain disorders).
It is recommended to visit a hospital for further examination to rule out these possibilities.
If your father is resistant to psychiatric outpatient services, you might consider seeking help from the physician who regularly monitors his cancer condition, who can assist with referrals or arrange for necessary tests.

Reply Date: 2024/05/30

More Info

Addressing mental health concerns in a family member, especially after a significant illness like cancer, can be a challenging and sensitive issue. Your father's recent experiences with surgery, medication, and lifestyle changes may have contributed to his current mental health struggles. It is not uncommon for individuals recovering from serious illnesses to experience emotional and psychological disturbances, which can manifest as mood swings, confusion, and changes in behavior.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that the emotional and psychological impact of a serious illness can be profound. The stress of dealing with a cancer diagnosis, the physical toll of surgery, and the side effects of medication can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and confusion. In your father's case, the irregularities in medication adherence, diet, and daily routines may exacerbate these issues, leading to the symptoms you described, such as mood swings, disorientation, and impulsive behaviors.

Given the situation, here are some steps you can consider to address your father's mental health concerns:
1. Open Communication: Start by having an open and compassionate conversation with your father. Express your concerns without judgment, and let him know that you are there to support him. It is crucial to approach this conversation with empathy, as he may be feeling vulnerable and defensive.

2. Encourage Professional Help: While it may be challenging to convince him to seek help, gently encourage him to see a mental health professional. Explain that mental health is just as important as physical health, especially after a significant illness. If he is resistant, consider suggesting a general check-up with his primary care physician, who can then refer him to a mental health specialist.

3. Monitor Medication: Ensure that your father is taking his medications as prescribed. Sometimes, confusion and mood swings can result from improper medication management. If he is struggling with this, you might consider setting up a medication schedule or using pill organizers to help him keep track.

4. Establish Routine: Help him establish a daily routine that includes regular meals, physical activity, and social interaction. A structured routine can provide a sense of normalcy and stability, which is beneficial for mental health.

5. Involve Family and Friends: Engage other family members or close friends in supporting your father. Sometimes, hearing concerns from multiple loved ones can help him feel less isolated and more willing to seek help.

6. Educate Yourself and Your Family: Understanding the potential psychological effects of cancer treatment can help you and your family approach the situation with more knowledge and compassion. Resources from cancer support organizations can provide valuable insights.

7. Consider Therapy Options: If your father is open to it, suggest therapy options such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or counseling. These therapies can help him process his feelings about his illness and develop coping strategies for managing his emotions.

8. Emergency Situations: If your father's behavior becomes dangerous to himself or others (e.g., running out of the house at night), it may be necessary to seek immediate help. This could involve contacting a mental health crisis line or taking him to the emergency room for evaluation.

9. Self-Care for Family Members: Caring for a loved one with mental health issues can be emotionally taxing. Ensure that you and other family members are also taking care of your own mental health. Consider seeking support for yourselves, whether through counseling or support groups.

In conclusion, addressing mental health concerns in a family member after an illness requires a compassionate and proactive approach. Encourage open communication, seek professional help, and establish a supportive environment. Remember that recovery is a process, and it may take time for your father to adjust to his new circumstances. Your support and understanding can make a significant difference in his journey toward better mental health.

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