Northwind
Stationary nomad.
- Pronouns
- She/Her/Her
I suddenly realize I have a 32 year old family member who is likely experiencing a major mental illness. Since I've worked on the field for many years, I strongly suspect the illness. The professional side of me (who cannot diagnose) suspects schizophrenia. He has had a psychotic episode, has paranoia, is reclusive and apparently has delusions. Apparently there have been issues for ten years and he has been getting worse for the past five years. At the very least, he has a major depression. He was recently hospitalized for a week. This was his second hospitalization in about three months. He was going to sit down with my husband and I to talk about it. He hasn't. I'm concerned. That confidentiality thing is a pain. I obviously cannot use my professional "card" to get information. That would be wrong on many levels.
My husband and I have an appointment next week with a woman who works for the BC Schizophrenia Society. I have a lot of respect for her since she has been a colleague of sorts in the past. I'm hoping she can help us help him.
There is so much secrecy around mental illness. People who have more knowledge will say they will let him tell us what happened. He hasn't. People are afraid of him finding out we are talking behind his back. That doesn't help.
I'm hoping we can sit down and ask him about his diagnosis and treatment. This experience has taught me the importance of open communications and supports.
Does anyone else have experience with major mental illness and how to support someone who is ill?
My husband and I have an appointment next week with a woman who works for the BC Schizophrenia Society. I have a lot of respect for her since she has been a colleague of sorts in the past. I'm hoping she can help us help him.
There is so much secrecy around mental illness. People who have more knowledge will say they will let him tell us what happened. He hasn't. People are afraid of him finding out we are talking behind his back. That doesn't help.
I'm hoping we can sit down and ask him about his diagnosis and treatment. This experience has taught me the importance of open communications and supports.
Does anyone else have experience with major mental illness and how to support someone who is ill?