Voices of Families Struggling with Mental Illness: A Personal Account

Voices of Families of Individuals with Mental Illness

When their family members are in pain and helpless, my mother sometimes has episodes where she argues with my father and becomes delusional, leading her to run outside without any clothes on.
We live in an apartment, and this is really embarrassing.
I have consulted a doctor, who only prescribed me a bottle of haloperidol, but I can't use it every day; I can only use it once every few weeks.
Even when I do use it, I don't dare to suggest taking her to see a doctor or mention any discomfort she might have, because it doesn't seem reasonable.
She is very sensitive and can sense what we are thinking.
She hasn't reached the point of self-harm or harming others, but her usual behavior causes us a lot of distress.
We can't take her to the hospital, and even if we forcibly admit her, she would likely be back home in just two weeks.
She has been ill for over 20 years, and two weeks of treatment wouldn't make any significant difference; it might even worsen her condition.
Once she is admitted to the hospital, the family would have to confront her, and she would definitely think we consider her insane.
I really wish she could stay in the hospital until her condition improves or stabilizes before being discharged.
However, I understand that if she isn't a danger to herself or others, or if she doesn't want to be hospitalized, we cannot force her to stay.
I truly don't know what to do, especially since we live in an apartment and I am afraid of causing a scene.
I also don't know how to communicate with the hospital.
I live in Pingtung, and I previously visited the psychiatric department at Pingtung Hospital, but they only gave me a cursory response and didn't really answer my questions.
What should I do?

Xiao Ming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/06/29

Dr. Zhang Zhehong reply Psychiatry

Hello, you have worked hard, and you are truly strong to endure so much helplessness.
Based on the condition you described, she should be able to be arranged for treatment in a chronic (rehabilitation) ward for a few months to enhance the therapeutic effect and establish insight into her illness.
Regarding the hospital resources in Pingtung, you can visit http://chs-www.doh.gov.tw/csnpt/index.html and click on the bottom right for the inquiry of psychiatric care specialized hospitals.
Call the hospital to confirm the medical treatment and the admission process for the chronic ward, which is usually arranged quite quickly.
Wishing you all the best.

Reply Date: 2008/06/29

More Info

It sounds like you and your family are going through an incredibly challenging time with your mother's mental health issues. The situation you describe, where your mother exhibits erratic behavior, such as arguing with your father and having episodes of disrobing and leaving the house, can be distressing not only for her but also for the entire family. It’s important to understand that mental illness can manifest in various ways, and the behaviors you are witnessing may be symptoms of a deeper psychological issue.

From your description, it seems that your mother may be experiencing severe mood swings or episodes that could be indicative of a mental health disorder. These could range from conditions like bipolar disorder to severe anxiety or even psychotic disorders. The fact that she has been struggling for over 20 years suggests that this is a chronic issue that requires ongoing management and support.

You mentioned that you have consulted a doctor and received a prescription for a medication, but it seems that the treatment plan is not sufficient or consistent. Medication can be a crucial part of managing mental health conditions, but it often needs to be combined with therapy and regular follow-ups to be effective. It’s concerning that you feel unable to discuss her need for medical attention with her, as open communication is vital in managing mental health issues.

Here are some steps you might consider taking:
1. Seek Professional Help: It may be beneficial to consult with a mental health professional who specializes in family therapy or psychiatric care. They can provide guidance on how to approach your mother about her condition and help you navigate the complexities of her care. If local resources are limited, consider looking for telehealth options where you can speak to a professional remotely.

2. Educate Yourself and Your Family: Understanding mental health conditions can empower you and your family to better support your mother. There are many resources available, including books, websites, and support groups that focus on mental illness. Learning about her condition can help you approach her with empathy and understanding.

3. Establish a Support System: It’s essential to have a support system for yourself and your family. This could include friends, family members, or support groups for families dealing with mental illness. Sharing your experiences with others who understand can alleviate some of the emotional burden.

4. Crisis Plan: Since your mother has been ill for a long time, it might be wise to develop a crisis plan. This plan should outline what steps to take if her behavior escalates or if she poses a risk to herself or others. Knowing how to respond in a crisis can help reduce anxiety for you and your family.

5. Consider Involuntary Commitment: While it is a difficult decision, if your mother’s behavior poses a danger to herself or others, involuntary commitment may be necessary. This process varies by location, so you would need to consult with local mental health services or legal professionals to understand the options available to you.

6. Communicate with Compassion: When discussing her health, try to approach her with compassion and understanding. Avoid using terms that might make her feel judged or stigmatized. Instead, express your concern for her well-being and your desire to help her find the support she needs.

7. Regular Check-ins: If she is open to it, regular check-ins about her feelings and experiences can help her feel supported. This can also provide you with insights into her mental state and any changes that may require immediate attention.

8. Document Behaviors: Keeping a record of her behaviors, triggers, and any changes can be helpful when discussing her condition with healthcare providers. This information can provide valuable context for her treatment.

Remember, you are not alone in this struggle, and seeking help is a sign of strength. Mental illness affects not just the individual but the entire family, and it’s crucial to take care of your own mental health as well. Consider reaching out to professionals who can guide you through this difficult journey.

Similar Q&A

Struggling to Communicate: The Impact of Family Dynamics on Mental Health

Due to family circumstances, I was raised by my uncle. People around me always say to listen to him because he has made many sacrifices to take care of me. However, during our conversations, he often imposes his own beliefs on me, and if I respond incorrectly, he calls me an idio...

Dr. Yan Congyou reply Psychiatry
Hello: It sounds like your situation at home is quite oppressive and unhappy, which is a major source of your distress and unhappiness. Family issues are often the most challenging problems for individuals to handle and are something that everyone is forced to confront. These sit...

Understanding the Struggles of Families with Mentally Ill Loved Ones

Hello, Doctor. My father was taken to the psychiatric emergency room years ago after a manic episode, during which he claimed to have special abilities and danced in a peculiar manner. Since he was not hospitalized at that time, our family dynamics changed drastically after his d...

Dr. Huang Jiabin reply Psychiatry
Hello: One of the most challenging aspects of mental health conditions is that they can affect judgment. While individuals do not lose all cognitive abilities, certain specific areas may be impacted, leading to significant difficulties for themselves and their families. The suffe...

Overcoming Pessimism: Coping with Schizophrenia and Family Struggles

Hello, doctor: My family relationships are strained because I have schizophrenia... I feel abandoned in my care. I often cry secretly out of fear of being left alone. Sometimes I think about what would happen if my health deteriorated and there was really no one to take care of m...

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Please return for a follow-up appointment so we can discuss further. Thank you!

Navigating Family Conflicts and Mental Health Challenges

I have always been busy with my career development and have a habit of engaging in outdoor sports. Let me clarify that my following statements are not fictional and should not be distorted. I just returned from abroad, and since both my mother and I have loud voices, we often spe...

Dr. Xiao Minghong reply Psychiatry
Dear Miss A, I am sorry to hear about the many painful experiences you have encountered, and I understand that the difficulties you face are multifaceted. Based on the information provided, I can offer the following responses: 1. Communication Issues with Family: It seems that ...