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Bipolar adult son refuses any mental health treatment - help
Mental Health | Last Active: 5 hours ago | Replies (36)Comment receiving replies
@mercerspring your son is ill. It’s a disease like cancer, he does not do act like this on purpose. Bipolar 1 and schizophrenia are very serious mental disorders that are progressive and often gets worse over time. Our 32 yr old son has had bipolar 1 for 10 years, takes antipsychotic medication (as a shot) each month but occasionally relapsed with a manic episode and goes to the hospital has to start the process all over again of trying another drug that works. It’s very difficult for us, especially to watch this. He works on and off when he can find any menial job, and we supplement so he can stay in his apartment. He lived with us for a year and a half until last summer and it was very hard on us. So we do what we can to keep him going. If we did not, I’m sure he would be homeless on the streets and not safe or in jail. I could not just ignore him and live with myself since he is ill. Many families do though, and give up and that is why there are so many people with mental illness that are homeless. So, I guess it’s up to you. It is very very hard I will say
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@bewildered
Thank you for your reply. Let me clarify what happened in my home …. My son had a major episode that required treatment three years ago but refused all medication and counseling since leaving Genrose. I have supported him - emotionally and financially since. Invested in his living as full of a life as possible. Enrolled him in study programs, provided housing. Even had him in my home for 7 of the last nine years - which is when my husband passed away . Despite my encouragement and love, mental illness returned and will continue to do so - until I can convince him to be open to getting well. At least giving mental illness treatment a three month chance. I promised my other four children that if he ended up giving everything he owns and ending up homeless again - which he has - that I would warmly welcome him in , but would expect him to pursue mental health help ( therapy or medication or a combination of both ). He has flatly refused. I did not force him onto the streets , I simply stated that for him to be in my home that seeking mental health treatment for at least three months was expected. He chose to walk. Breaks my heart. My son is not his mental illness. It is not his fault. He is so amazing. But bringing his disorder into our home when he completely refuses to help himself is doing none of us a service. I am always here for him. Always. He knows that. My parting words of how much I love him. Regarding the information you shared regarding your home … I am so proud of how you have fought for your son. Medically, emotionally and financially. That’s beautiful. It appears your son is open to help - in all three areas, whereas my son would not do anything to help his mental health. I think what you are providing is exactly what I would be honored to offer my son - but addressing his mental health must be a part of it. Until he accepts that, I can not help. But know…. I even have a signed taped to my front door welcoming him home ( should he come by) and that we love him and are here to help him help himself. I wish you continued strength. Your dedication to your son is beautiful.