Is My Mother Suffering from Depression? Her Disturbing Behavior

Q: Is My Mother Suffering from Depression? Her Disturbing Behavior

Hello Jin： Based on your letter, it appears that your mother is not suffering from depression but rather from a psychiatric disorder. <br>From a psychiatric perspective, if we can rule out any "organic" (medical or surgical) factors, your mother may be diagnosed with a mental ill

Could you please tell me if you are experiencing symptoms of depression?

Hello Doctor: My mother has been superstitious for a long time, and recently it has become more severe.
She often dreams at night, and regardless of what she dreams about, she claims that someone is trying to harm us.
She spends her days visiting temples to pray for divine protection.
This would be one thing, but one day she actually went to a reservoir and jumped in.
Fortunately, someone noticed and called the police to rescue her.
When asked why she jumped into the reservoir, she said it was to save my brother because he was being harmed, even though my brother was perfectly fine sleeping at home.
I want to take her to see a doctor, but she refuses, saying that we children don't understand and that she is not sick and doesn't need to see a doctor.
As her children, we are at a loss about what to do.
I would like to ask if my mother’s situation could be indicative of depression.
Thank you!

jin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/10/01

Dr. Chen Wenyu reply Psychiatry

Hello Jin: Based on your letter, it appears that your mother is not suffering from depression but rather from a psychiatric disorder.
From a psychiatric perspective, if we can rule out any "organic" (medical or surgical) factors, your mother may be diagnosed with a mental illness, possibly delusional disorder or schizophrenia.
In any case, it is essential for her to seek medical attention, as her delusions have already led to self-harm.

As for how to seek medical help, you could find a reason, such as difficulty sleeping at night, feeling unhappy or stressed, and emphasize these feelings.
Express your concerns as her children and accompany her to see a "psychologist." First, contact a psychiatrist to inform them of the details before taking your mother for an appointment.
If she is willing to take medication, she should do so; if she is not cooperative, the doctor may prescribe a "tincture" (the type and usage will be explained in detail by the physician).
Of course, if any severe incidents occur again, you should call the police to have her taken for involuntary treatment in a psychiatric ward.
Thank you for your letter!

Reply Date: 2005/10/01

More Info

Your concerns about your mother's mental health are very valid and deserve careful consideration. Based on your description, it seems that your mother is exhibiting behaviors that could be indicative of a serious mental health issue, potentially including depression, anxiety, or even a psychotic disorder.
Firstly, the fact that she is experiencing intense dreams and interpreting them as threats to her family suggests a level of paranoia or anxiety. This could be a manifestation of underlying depression, especially if she feels hopeless or helpless. The act of jumping into a reservoir, believing she was saving your brother from harm, is particularly alarming. This behavior indicates a significant disconnect from reality and a potential risk to her safety, as well as the safety of others.

Depression can manifest in various ways, including persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, feelings of worthlessness, and sometimes even delusions or hallucinations in severe cases. Your mother's belief that she is being targeted or that her dreams hold significant meaning could suggest a more complex psychological issue, possibly involving delusions.
It is also important to consider the context of her behavior. If she has experienced significant stressors in her life, such as the loss of a loved one or family conflicts, these could exacerbate her mental health issues. The fact that she is resistant to seeking help is common among individuals who may be struggling with mental illness, as they often do not recognize their condition or fear the stigma associated with it.

Given these observations, it is crucial to approach this situation with care. Here are some steps you might consider:
1. Open Communication: Try to have a calm and supportive conversation with your mother about her feelings and experiences. Express your concern without judgment, and let her know that you care about her well-being.

2. Encourage Professional Help: Gently suggest that she see a mental health professional. You can frame it as a way to help her feel better or to understand her experiences more clearly. It may be helpful to offer to accompany her to the appointment to provide support.

3. Safety First: Given her recent behavior of jumping into the reservoir, it is essential to ensure her safety. If you believe she is in immediate danger of harming herself or others, do not hesitate to seek emergency help. This could involve contacting mental health services or emergency responders.

4. Educate Yourself: Understanding more about mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, can help you better support your mother. Resources such as books, articles, or support groups can provide valuable insights.

5. Seek Support for Yourself: Caring for someone with mental health issues can be emotionally taxing. Consider seeking support for yourself, whether through friends, family, or professional counseling.
In conclusion, your mother's behavior is concerning and may indicate a serious mental health issue. It is crucial to approach the situation with empathy and urgency, encouraging her to seek professional help while ensuring her safety. Mental health conditions are treatable, and with the right support, individuals can find relief and regain a sense of stability in their lives.

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