What can someone do to deal with a 62 year old family member whom is obviously suffering from an mental illness, but refuses to get help, or acknowledge it? He self medicates with alcohol and prescription drugs. He alienates/can't get along with others, his only friend is the TV, has drastic mood swings and disorganized/illogical thinking. Is there a professional out there that can give me some tips?
2007-08-14 07:45:05 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous in Health ➔ Mental Health
Thank you for your really great answers. Unfortunately the doctor he does see is a pill pusher. How do you think he gets those prescription meds. He won't go to another dr. because he likes getting the drugs and the brush off!!
2007-08-15 05:34:32 · update #1
Sometimes those in our families need help and they blame everyone else around them instead of looking at themselves. These people make others need to go for therapy because they refuse to look in the mirror. If you cannot get them to seek the help they are in need of, go talk to someone so that you can learn the best way to cope with them. These people drain the energy out of those closest to them. Get the help you
need so you can deal with this situation. Best Wishes
2007-08-14 07:56:02 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
He really needs to see a doctor. This could be a mental illness, but it could also be a physical problem. We thought that my grandmother was going senile, but then when her doctors looked at all her prescriptions it turned out she was taking medications that she shouldn't be taking together. If your family member is self medicating this could be the case. Don't approach it with him as a mental illness, just try to get him to go in for a routine physical and maybe the doctors can take it from there. Good luck.
2007-08-14 14:55:09 · answer #2 · answered by kat 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If the disorganized/illogical thinking or mood swings are causing him to be a danger to himself or others, you can talk to your local police. They can put him on a 72 hour hold in a hospital for an evaluation by psychiatric professionals. That may seem harsh, but it may be necessary depending on the severity. It's a tough call...good luck.
2007-08-14 16:10:28 · answer #3 · answered by peacemaker 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋