My Father's Strange Behavior: Signs of Mental Health Issues

Q: My Father's Strange Behavior: Signs of Mental Health Issues

Hello Meg： Based on the description, it seems that your father has become disconnected from reality, correct? He may be experiencing "paranoid delusions" (believing that others are talking about him, speaking ill of him, and assuming that conversations are about him), and there i

Please take a look at my father's condition, thank you?

My father has been increasingly strange in his behavior over the past few years.
He often acts irrationally and frequently criticizes my mother.
One question he often asks is, "What did you just say?" He tends to interrogate us, nitpicking everything.
He frequently claims that we said things we did not say, insisting that we are just refusing to admit it.
He feels that our whole family does not care about him, as if we are trying to isolate him.
Even speaking at home has become uncomfortable; whenever I talk to my mother, he immediately asks, "What did you just say?" believing we are speaking ill of him.
There are certain words he considers taboo, such as "he," "is," and "not," among others.
Words that most people find normal, he deems inappropriate and insists should not be spoken.
His personality has also become reclusive; he no longer interacts with friends or relatives and is very cold towards others.
He often has a stern expression, appearing quite rigid.
When he loses his temper, he tends to be uncontrollable, raising his voice, throwing things, and acting as if he might hurt someone.
At times, it feels like he is on the verge of hysteria.
He often repeats the same questions to my mother, sometimes asking the same topic twenty or thirty times, and he pressures her relentlessly, making it hard for her to breathe.
My uncle mentioned that his symptoms resemble early signs of dementia.
However, my father is unwilling to seek medical help.
My uncle suggested "involuntary commitment" and advised me to contact the "Songshan Sanatorium." I am unsure if you can provide an initial assessment based on my description.
What kind of condition could he possibly have? Thank you for your assistance!

meg, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/12/19

Dr. Chen Wenyu reply Psychiatry

Hello Meg: Based on the description, it seems that your father has become disconnected from reality, correct? He may be experiencing "paranoid delusions" (believing that others are talking about him, speaking ill of him, and assuming that conversations are about him), and there is a possibility of "auditory hallucinations" (hearing voices that do not exist, which only he can hear; as mentioned in your letter, you did not speak, yet he believes he heard you discussing him).
A "lack of reality testing" is a primary symptom of "psychosis," meaning he can no longer distinguish between reality and his hallucinations or delusions.
In such cases, medical intervention is indeed necessary, and even involuntary treatment may be required.
When there are abnormal behaviors and the risk of self-harm or harm to others, involuntary treatment can be initiated.
Involuntary treatment does not involve contacting a hospital directly, but rather contacting emergency services at 119 or the local health department.
In an emergency, you should call 119 for assistance; given the current situation, you can first seek help from a public health nurse at the health department for an initial assessment, and they will provide you with appropriate advice.
Thank you for your letter!

Reply Date: 2005/12/19

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a very challenging situation with your father's behavior and mental health. Based on the symptoms you've described, it is possible that your father may be exhibiting signs of a mental health issue, such as dementia or another cognitive disorder, but it is essential to approach this matter with care and sensitivity.

Understanding the Signs
1. Increased Irritability and Anger: Your father's frequent outbursts and irritability, particularly towards family members, can be indicative of underlying emotional distress or cognitive decline. This behavior may stem from frustration due to changes in his mental state or a feeling of loss of control over his life.

2. Paranoia and Suspicion: The fact that he frequently questions what you and your mother are saying and feels isolated or believes that you are speaking negatively about him suggests a level of paranoia. This can be a symptom of various mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders or early signs of dementia.

3. Repetitive Questions: The repetitive questioning you mentioned, where he asks the same thing multiple times, can be a sign of cognitive decline. This behavior is often seen in individuals with dementia, where memory issues lead them to forget previous conversations.

4. Social Withdrawal: His isolation from friends and family, along with a general lack of interest in social interactions, can be a sign of depression or anxiety. This withdrawal can further exacerbate feelings of loneliness and lead to a cycle of negative emotions.

5. Physical Aggression: The episodes of anger where he may throw things or act aggressively are concerning. This behavior can be a manifestation of frustration and may indicate that he is struggling to manage his emotions effectively.

Next Steps
1. Encourage Open Communication: It is crucial to approach your father with empathy and understanding. Try to have calm conversations when he is in a good mood. Express your concerns without being confrontational. Let him know that you care about his well-being and that you want to understand what he is feeling.

2. Seek Professional Help: While it may be challenging to convince him to see a mental health professional, it is essential to explore this option. You might consider discussing the possibility of a consultation with a doctor or therapist with him, emphasizing that it is a way to help him feel better rather than implying that he has a problem.

3. Family Support: It may be beneficial for your family to seek counseling or support as well. This can help you and your mother cope with the emotional toll of your father's behavior and provide strategies for managing interactions with him.

4. Monitor His Health: Given your father's existing health conditions, including diabetes and potential heart issues, it is vital to ensure he is receiving appropriate medical care. Sometimes, physical health problems can exacerbate mental health issues, so regular check-ups are essential.

5. Consider a Comprehensive Evaluation: If your father continues to refuse help, you may need to consider more drastic measures, such as a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional. This could involve discussing his behavior with a doctor who can assess his mental and physical health.

6. Legal and Ethical Considerations: If his behavior poses a risk to himself or others, you may need to explore legal options for involuntary treatment. This is a sensitive area and should be approached with caution and compassion.

Conclusion
Your father's behavior is concerning and could indicate underlying mental health issues that require professional evaluation. It is essential to approach the situation with empathy, encourage open communication, and seek professional help when possible. Remember that you are not alone in this, and there are resources available to support both your father and your family during this challenging time.

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