Can My Sister Apply for a Major Illness Card Due to Mental Health Issues?

Q: Can My Sister Apply for a Major Illness Card Due to Mental Health Issues?

Your question is viewed as follows： Your sister has a past diagnosis of suspected depression. <br>Now, she is exhibiting behavior involving significant financial expenditures. <br>To understand whether your sister's behavior is related to a psychiatric diagnosis, it is essential

Can I apply for a major illness card under these circumstances?

Hello Dr.
Chou: My sister is 31 years old and has previously been diagnosed with suspected depression by a psychiatrist.
Recently, she secretly signed contracts for three properties with three different real estate agencies within a month, paying over 600,000 NTD in deposits.
Since she cannot prove her illness, she is unable to recover the deposits.
Can she apply for a major illness card under these circumstances?

Dou Dou, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/06/20

Dr. Zhou Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Your question is viewed as follows: Your sister has a past diagnosis of suspected depression.
Now, she is exhibiting behavior involving significant financial expenditures.
To understand whether your sister's behavior is related to a psychiatric diagnosis, it is essential to first establish an accurate diagnosis by assessing her symptoms, their duration, severity, and so on.
This must be evaluated carefully by a physician before a diagnosis can be made.
Based on the information you provided, a diagnosis cannot be determined.

Next, it is important to understand your sister's behavior itself.
If legal issues are involved, a forensic psychiatric evaluation must be conducted to clarify whether the behavior is influenced by a mental illness.
The key point is the assessment of "capacity," as individuals with mental illness are not exempt from being responsible for their actions.
This is a professional judgment that typically requires a full day of evaluation, and it is difficult to address your sister's situation based solely on brief statements.

Regarding your final question about the "Major Illness Card," it is unrelated to the situation you described and the analysis above.
This card is merely a certification issued by the National Health Insurance Administration that can alleviate some financial burdens; it does not prove that her behavior is a result of an illness.
Furthermore, the information you provided is extremely limited and insufficient to determine whether you can apply for a "Major Illness Card."

Reply Date: 2005/06/20

More Info

Based on the information you've provided about your sister's mental health struggles, it seems she has been experiencing significant emotional distress, which may be indicative of a serious mental health condition. Given her past diagnosis of suspected depression and her recent impulsive behavior—such as signing contracts for multiple properties without informing her family—it's crucial to approach this situation with care and understanding.

In the United States, the process for applying for a Major Illness Card (or similar benefits) typically requires a formal diagnosis from a licensed mental health professional. This card is often intended for individuals with severe and persistent mental health conditions that significantly impair their daily functioning. Conditions that might qualify include severe depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other serious mental illnesses.
To determine if your sister can apply for such a card, the following steps are recommended:
1. Seek Professional Evaluation: It is essential for your sister to see a psychiatrist or a licensed psychologist who can conduct a thorough evaluation. This evaluation will help clarify her mental health status and determine if she meets the criteria for a serious mental illness.

2. Document Symptoms and Behaviors: Keeping a detailed record of her symptoms, behaviors, and any significant changes in her mood or functioning can be helpful. This documentation can support her case when applying for benefits.

3. Discuss Treatment Options: If she is diagnosed with a mental health condition, the mental health professional can recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Treatment can help stabilize her condition and improve her decision-making abilities.

4. Understand the Application Process: Each state or region may have different requirements for applying for a Major Illness Card or similar benefits. It’s important to research the specific criteria and documentation needed in your area. This often includes medical records, proof of diagnosis, and possibly letters from healthcare providers.

5. Involve Family Support: If your sister is open to it, family support can be invaluable. Encouraging her to share her struggles with you or other family members can help her feel less isolated and more willing to seek help.

6. Address Financial Implications: Given the financial commitments she has made, it may also be wise to consult with a financial advisor or legal professional who can provide guidance on how to manage these contracts and any potential repercussions.

7. Crisis Management: If her behavior escalates or if there are concerns about her safety or the safety of others, it may be necessary to seek immediate help from mental health crisis services or emergency services.

In conclusion, while your sister's impulsive actions and past mental health diagnosis may warrant consideration for a Major Illness Card, the first step is to ensure she receives a comprehensive evaluation from a mental health professional. This will not only help in determining her eligibility for benefits but also provide her with the necessary support and treatment to address her mental health needs. Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and seeking help is a strong and positive step forward.

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