Navigating Mental Health Challenges: A Mother's Plea for Help

It seems unwilling to admit patients to the ward?

I'm sorry to hear about your situation.
It sounds incredibly challenging.
It's important to address your daughter's mental health concerns with a qualified professional.
If you feel that the current treatment is not effective, it may be worth seeking a second opinion or exploring different therapeutic options.
Communication with her healthcare providers is crucial, and expressing your concerns about her well-being can help them understand the urgency of the situation.
If your daughter is expressing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, it's vital to seek immediate help from emergency services or a crisis hotline.
Your daughter's safety is the top priority, and getting her the right support is essential.
Please take care of yourself as well during this difficult time.

Wei Nan De Mu Qin, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/08/16

Dr. Ding Shuyan reply Psychiatry

Hello, many things can be viewed in detail, or we can simply check if the overall direction is correct; some people assess success or failure based on results, while others believe that the process of achieving those results is more important.
In medical care, some patients think that it is most important for the physician to prescribe the most expensive and best medications, while others prioritize the physician's attitude and communication.
All of this depends on what we consider to be most meaningful to us.
The communication process is similar; we often remember the words that resonate most with us, which is why we sometimes encounter phrases that "impact us for a lifetime." My patients sometimes express gratitude for encouraging words I shared with them in the past, which had a profound effect, even though I may not recall emphasizing that particular phrase.
Conversely, I likely often say things that patients do not want to hear, sometimes without being aware of it at the time.
A patient's dissatisfaction with their therapist or various negative emotions may not always be the therapist's fault; such feelings can naturally arise during the course of psychological treatment and can serve as a gateway to explore the patient's complex relationships with significant figures in their life.

When dealing with psychiatric patients, including those who self-harm or have suicidal tendencies, there are many intricate psychological dynamics and interactions with stress that are inherently more complex than simply deciding whether or not to undergo surgery.
I recommend that you discuss your concerns with your daughter's physician and therapist to communicate your perspectives.
It would be best to adopt a consistent approach, as this will help your daughter make gradual progress within a stable framework.
The professionals who know your daughter best are her physician and therapist, while I am merely an online consultant whom you have never met; the value of my opinion is likely far less than that of your daughter's physician, and I want to emphasize this point! If you feel that you have lost confidence in that physician, it is also acceptable to consider changing therapists.
Wishing you all the best.

Sincerely,
Dr.
Ding Shuo-Yan

Reply Date: 2010/08/16

More Info

Navigating mental health challenges, especially within a family context, can be incredibly overwhelming and distressing. As a mother, your concern for your daughter's well-being is palpable, and it’s clear that you are deeply invested in finding the right path forward for her. The situation you describe indicates that your daughter is experiencing significant emotional turmoil, which may include anxiety, depression, and possibly suicidal ideation. Here are some thoughts and recommendations based on your description.

Firstly, it’s essential to acknowledge that your daughter's feelings and behaviors are serious and warrant immediate attention. The fact that she has expressed thoughts of self-harm and has created plans for suicide is alarming. This indicates that she may be in a crisis, and it is crucial to take these signs seriously. If she is expressing a desire to harm herself or has made plans to do so, it may be necessary to seek emergency help, even if she is resistant to it. In situations where there is an imminent risk of self-harm, it is often appropriate for family members to intervene, even against the individual's wishes, to ensure their safety.

Regarding the therapy sessions, it seems there is a disconnect between your daughter and her therapist. If your daughter feels that the sessions are not beneficial and is expressing frustration with the process, it may be worth considering a change in therapists. A good therapeutic relationship is built on trust and understanding, and if she feels misunderstood or unsupported, it could hinder her progress. However, it’s also important to approach this change delicately, as your daughter may already be feeling vulnerable.

You mentioned that the therapist suggested that hospitalization might not be beneficial. While this may be true in some cases, it’s crucial to weigh the risks and benefits carefully. If your daughter’s condition is deteriorating, and she is exhibiting severe symptoms, hospitalization might be necessary to provide her with a safe environment and intensive support. It’s essential to communicate openly with her healthcare providers about your concerns and to advocate for your daughter's needs.

In terms of your daughter's anxiety and physical symptoms, such as shaking and loss of appetite, these could be manifestations of her mental health struggles. It’s important to address these symptoms holistically. Encourage her to engage in self-care practices, such as regular meals, hydration, and gentle physical activity, if she is able. Sometimes, medication adjustments may also be necessary, and this is something that should be discussed with her psychiatrist.

As a mother, your role in supporting your daughter is invaluable. While it’s understandable to feel frustrated and helpless, your presence and willingness to listen can make a significant difference. Encourage her to express her feelings, and validate her experiences without judgment. It might also be helpful to seek support for yourself, as caring for someone with mental health challenges can be emotionally taxing. Consider joining a support group for parents of children with mental health issues, where you can share experiences and gain insights from others in similar situations.

Lastly, it’s essential to maintain open lines of communication with your daughter. Let her know that you are there for her, and that it’s okay to talk about her feelings, no matter how difficult they may be. Reassure her that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and that you are willing to support her in finding the right resources.

In conclusion, your daughter’s mental health is a priority, and it’s crucial to take her feelings seriously. Advocate for her needs, consider changing therapists if necessary, and don’t hesitate to seek emergency help if her safety is at risk. Remember to take care of yourself as well, as your well-being is essential in supporting your daughter through this challenging time.

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