Navigating Objections to Psychiatric Treatment: A Guide for Families
When a loved one, like your mother, faces a severe mental illness such as schizophrenia and resists taking prescribed medications, it can be a challenging and overwhelming process. Here are practical steps and insights to help navigate this situation.
Understanding the Challenges
It's important to recognize that rejecting medications or being resistant to treatment is often seen in severe mental illnesses. This resistance can stem from a variety of factors: fear, confusion, lack of awareness, or a desire to maintain control. Despite the challenges, seeking professional help and adopting practical strategies can make a significant difference.
Seek Professional Help
The first step is to engage your mother's doctor or she may need to be taken to the hospital. Ignoring or forgetting to take prescribed medications can lead to serious health complications. Professional medical advice is crucial and should not be overlooked.
Consult the Adrenochrome Theory
Research the adrenochrome theory of schizophrenia, which has a high success rate in treating the condition. Doctors employing this method have reported a 85% success rate in treating schizophrenia. Consult qualified medical professionals for this specific approach.
Involvement and Consent
Getting your mother to talk to the doctor is key. If she respects the doctor's advice, this can significantly improve her willingness to comply with treatment. Additionally, covert medication can be a more practical approach for non-compliant patients. This involves mixing medication into food or drinks, although it is a debatable issue as it may be seen as a violation of human rights.
Responsible Guardianship and Hospitalization
If your mother's condition requires hospitalization, it is advisable to bring her along with a responsible guardian, preferably someone over 18 years of age. Navigate to a hospital with a Psychiatry department to ensure proper medical care. In cases where hospitalization is not required, long-acting injectable medications could be a viable alternative. These medications can be given every few weeks to months, depending on the severity and specific needs of the patient.
Educating Your Mother
Provide comprehensive educational resources to your mother about the costs and benefits of medications for schizophrenia. Encourage her to understand and cope with her illness in a more holistic manner. Engaging in activities like yoga, meditation, and creative pursuits can significantly contribute to her overall well-being.
Supportive Community and Lifestyle Changes
Help your mother find support groups where she can share her experiences with others facing similar challenges. Regular meetings with these groups can provide mutual support and potential solutions. Also, engage in regular physical activities such as yoga and meditation together. Encourage her to participate in art forms or creative activities that she enjoys, such as dance, music, drama, ceramics, glass blowing, or woodworking. These activities can serve as therapeutic outlets and enhance her quality of life.
Long-Term Management
It's crucial to emphasize that while medications can provide short-term relief, they are not a long-term solution for schizophrenia. The long-term approach involves learning to understand her brain and utilizing the advantages her illness provides. This process may take up to ten years of active work.
Final Thoughts
While medications are one tool in the management of schizophrenia, they are not the only solution. Encourage your mother to explore different options and methods to manage her condition. With a holistic approach and ongoing support, you can help your mother navigate this challenging journey with greater ease and effectiveness.