Caring for a Family Member with Mental Health Challenges: Tips and Guidance

How to care for individuals with mental health conditions?

Hello, I would like to inquire about my mother's condition.
She has become somewhat superstitious after being involved with "Falun Gong" (she promotes its benefits, encourages others to join, and insists on practicing without interruption).
Initially, I thought it was good for her to have a spiritual outlet, but now she often practices in a way that disregards her surroundings.
She sees cars and wants to get in, claiming someone is taking her to heaven, or she turns on all the lights at home, saying there are ghosts present (and similar incidents are numerous).
Although she has been seeking treatment from a psychiatrist, the results have not been significant.
How can we interact with her better in our daily lives? During the day, we, the children, have to go to work, and no one is there to accompany her! Would it be appropriate to consider admitting her to a care facility?

Xiao Xie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/07/06

Dr. Duan Yongzhang reply Psychiatry

Based on your description, it is difficult to determine whether your relative has a mental illness.
I recommend that you take her to a psychiatric outpatient clinic for an in-person evaluation by a physician, which is necessary to identify the issue and provide you with the best care recommendations.
A definitive diagnosis of a mental disorder, particularly a serious mental illness, is required before a referral to a long-term care facility can be made by the attending physician.
Therefore, it is advisable to seek treatment from an outpatient physician first; over time, you may begin to see therapeutic effects.
If a mental disorder is confirmed and the treatment outcomes are not satisfactory, we can discuss further care options in accordance with the regulations.
Thank you for your inquiry!

Reply Date: 2007/07/06

More Info

Caring for a family member with mental health challenges can be incredibly difficult, especially when their behavior becomes erratic or concerning. It sounds like your mother is experiencing significant distress, possibly exacerbated by her involvement with a belief system that may not be grounded in reality. This can lead to behaviors that are not only challenging for her but also for those around her. Here are some tips and guidance on how to interact with her and manage the situation effectively.

Understanding the Situation
First, it's essential to recognize that your mother's behavior may stem from a mental health condition that requires professional intervention. While she has sought help from a psychiatrist, it seems that the treatment has not been as effective as hoped. This can be frustrating, but it's important to remember that mental health treatment can be a complex process, often requiring time and adjustments in medication or therapy approaches.

Communication Strategies
1. Stay Calm and Supportive: When interacting with your mother, try to remain calm and supportive. Acknowledge her feelings without judgment. For example, if she expresses fears about ghosts or believes she is being taken to another realm, listen to her without dismissing her feelings. You might say, "I understand that you feel this way, and it must be very real for you."
2. Set Boundaries: While it's crucial to be supportive, it's equally important to set boundaries. If her behaviors become disruptive or unsafe, you may need to gently redirect her. For instance, if she insists on practicing her beliefs in a way that affects her daily life or the safety of others, you might say, "I think it’s important for us to take a break from this right now."
3. Encourage Professional Help: If her current treatment isn't effective, encourage her to discuss this with her psychiatrist. Sometimes, a change in medication or therapy type can make a significant difference. You might suggest, "Have you thought about talking to your doctor about how you’re feeling? They might have some new ideas that could help."

Daily Interaction
Given that you and your siblings are busy with work, it might be challenging to provide constant support. Here are some strategies to help manage this:
1. Establish a Routine: Routines can provide a sense of stability for individuals with mental health challenges. Try to establish a daily schedule that includes regular check-ins, meals, and activities. This can help her feel more secure and less anxious.

2. Involve Other Family Members: If possible, coordinate with other family members or friends to share the responsibility of checking in on her. This can alleviate some of the pressure on you and ensure she has someone to talk to throughout the day.

3. Consider Professional Care: If her behavior continues to escalate or if you feel that she poses a risk to herself or others, it may be necessary to consider more intensive care options, such as a mental health facility or a rehabilitation center. This should be approached delicately, as it can be a sensitive topic. You might say, "I think it could be helpful for you to have some extra support from professionals who can help you through this."

Self-Care for Caregivers
Caring for someone with mental health challenges can be emotionally taxing. It’s vital to take care of your own mental health as well. Make sure to carve out time for yourself, engage in activities you enjoy, and seek support from friends or support groups for caregivers. This can help you maintain your well-being and be more present for your mother.

Conclusion
Caring for a family member with mental health challenges requires patience, understanding, and sometimes tough decisions. It’s essential to maintain open lines of communication, encourage professional help, and ensure that you also take care of your own mental health. If the situation becomes overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from mental health professionals who can provide additional support and resources. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are people and resources available to help both you and your mother.

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