Supporting Family Members with Depression and Bipolar Disorder

Q: Supporting Family Members with Depression and Bipolar Disorder

Hello Mr. <br>Jan： Regarding your wife's emotional distress and her reluctance to seek medical treatment, current laws emphasize human rights. <br>According to the Mental Health Act, two criteria must be met for involuntary hospitalization： (1) Severe patients： individuals exhibi

Family issues related to depression and bipolar disorder?

Hello Dr.
Dai, last year my wife committed suicide.
I believe she had issues with emotional instability and mental health.
After that, I asked you (through the Linkou Health Center) to see her at Linkou Hospital, but she was unwilling to seek treatment.
I registered for an appointment myself 1-2 times and recorded our consultation to share with her family, but she discovered it and deleted it.
During this time, she mentioned that the Linkou Hospital made her uncomfortable and triggered painful memories, so we moved closer to my mother-in-law's house (in Xindian) to provide her with a sense of safety.
Recently, due to disagreements about the move, she took the car keys while I was driving and stopped the car in the middle of the road.
During this incident, both of my hands were bitten, and my thumb was almost bitten off.
I was in immense pain and wanted to leave, but the children are still so young.
I want to help her seek treatment, but she refuses.
Her family not only does not understand my situation but also has limited knowledge of her condition.
Additionally, I have been unable to find any government resources to assist patients with suicidal tendencies and mental health issues.
Could you please provide any suggestions on how to help my family? Thank you for your assistance.

Zhan Xunzhi, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/02

Dr. Dai Wanxiang reply Psychiatry

Hello Mr.
Jan: Regarding your wife's emotional distress and her reluctance to seek medical treatment, current laws emphasize human rights.
According to the Mental Health Act, two criteria must be met for involuntary hospitalization: (1) Severe patients: individuals exhibiting bizarre thoughts and unusual behaviors that are disconnected from reality, rendering them unable to manage their own affairs, as diagnosed by a specialist.
(2) There is a risk of self-harm or harm to others.
These two conditions must be satisfied to apply for involuntary hospitalization, so further assessment is necessary.
However, if the patient does not meet the definition of a severe patient, for example, if her behavior may be related to personality traits, legal avenues may need to be explored for addressing her harmful behaviors, such as the Domestic Violence Prevention Act.
If children are involved, the Child and Youth Welfare and Rights Protection Act may also apply, allowing for intervention by reporting to the appropriate authorities.
You are welcome to come to my clinic for further consultation.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2015/10/02

More Info

Supporting a family member with depression or bipolar disorder can be incredibly challenging, especially in the wake of a tragic event like a suicide. It’s important to approach this situation with compassion, understanding, and a willingness to seek help. Here are some strategies and insights that may assist you in supporting your wife and navigating this difficult time.

Understanding the Condition
First, it’s crucial to understand that both depression and bipolar disorder are complex mental health conditions that require professional intervention. These disorders can significantly affect a person's mood, behavior, and ability to function in daily life. Your wife’s reluctance to seek help is not uncommon; many individuals with mental health issues may feel ashamed, fearful, or overwhelmed by the stigma associated with these conditions.

Encouraging Professional Help
1. Gentle Persuasion: Encourage your wife to seek professional help, but do so gently. You might express your concern for her well-being and the impact her condition has on both her and your family. Offer to accompany her to appointments, which may help alleviate her anxiety about seeking treatment.

2. Educate Yourself: Understanding the symptoms and treatment options for depression and bipolar disorder can empower you to provide better support. Familiarize yourself with the signs of these conditions, the types of therapies available (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or medication), and the importance of a treatment plan.

3. Involve Trusted Individuals: If your wife is resistant to seeing a mental health professional, consider involving a trusted family member or friend who can help encourage her to seek help. Sometimes hearing it from someone else can make a difference.

Creating a Supportive Environment
1. Open Communication: Foster an environment where your wife feels safe expressing her feelings. Listen without judgment and validate her emotions. Avoid minimizing her struggles or offering unsolicited advice, as this can lead to feelings of isolation.

2. Establish Routines: Encourage a daily routine that includes healthy habits such as regular meals, exercise, and sleep. Structure can provide a sense of stability and predictability, which is often comforting for individuals experiencing mood disorders.

3. Limit Stressors: Identify and minimize stressors in her environment. This might involve simplifying daily tasks or responsibilities, especially during particularly challenging times.

Self-Care for Caregivers
1. Seek Support for Yourself: Caring for someone with a mental health condition can take a toll on your own mental health. Consider joining a support group for caregivers or seeking counseling for yourself. This can provide you with coping strategies and a safe space to express your feelings.

2. Set Boundaries: While it’s important to support your wife, it’s equally important to set boundaries to protect your own mental health. Recognize when you need a break and allow yourself to step back when necessary.

3. Focus on the Children: If you have children, ensure they are also receiving the support they need. Children can be affected by their parent’s mental health struggles, and it’s important to provide them with reassurance and understanding.

Seeking External Help
1. Community Resources: Research local mental health resources, such as hotlines, support groups, or community mental health centers. These organizations can provide valuable information and support for both you and your wife.

2. Emergency Situations: If your wife exhibits signs of severe distress or poses a risk to herself or others, do not hesitate to seek immediate help. This may involve contacting emergency services or taking her to the nearest hospital.

3. Advocacy: Advocate for your wife’s needs with her family and your own. Help them understand her condition and the importance of compassion and support during this time.

Conclusion
Supporting a family member with depression or bipolar disorder is a journey that requires patience, understanding, and often professional intervention. While you may feel overwhelmed, remember that you are not alone, and there are resources available to help both you and your wife. By fostering open communication, encouraging professional help, and taking care of your own mental health, you can create a supportive environment that promotes healing and understanding.

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