How to help family member with potential schizophrenia diagnosis

Hey @Cinepoet ,

I'm hearing how hard things must be for you at the moment.

I can also see how the hands of 'the system' must be tied if he is refusing help.

Do you think he is refusing help because he doesn't think he needs help? Or he is not aware of what is happening?

I'm not sure which state you reside in, but in my local area, we have CCU which is longer term accommodation for those who need additional support and there are mental health workers there 24/7.

So it is supported care.

Hi Tyme,

Thank you for your reply.

The answer to your question is probably both.. and also previous experience with medical system in his youth which was not good...

Can you please let me know about this accomodation option as my brother is also risking being homeless now and I have no idea what will happen to him once he is discharged..

Thank you

If he is in hospital, this is definitely something to speak to the clinicians/social workers about @Cinepoet

I know people in these CCU (complex/continued care units), as well as Salvation Army accommodation for those with MH conditions.

The hospital should be able to provide information.

I found out about CCUs through the hospital, as I was going to go there at one point.

Thank you so much for that information, and thank you for sharing your experience.

I have never heard of this option before.

I will try to speak to someone about this in hospital but so far they are refusing to talk to me or give me any information, which is so sad.

That's harder if you are not listed as a 'carer' @Cinepoet . It'll be hard to advocate for your loved one.

But definitely worth mentioning it.

Good Morning @Cinepoet

I can't imagine how frustrating it must be to see your family member suffering and just want to help them somehow.

I think you might be able to get some further information or support through Carers Australia

Hopefully you can find a way to support your family member. Take care of you, too!

Hi, cinepet

I suffer Schizophrenia

It must be challenging for everybody involved

In my opinion and experience, no good will come from any circumstance where he perceives being coerced or forced into anything. Including treatment

It won't achieve anything

Hi,

I am in the same situation with my brother and just have no idea how to help. Ive tried to get him help but its the same, they need him to agree. He refuses/is unable to accept he may have schizophrenia.

Speaking to someone today at Salvation Army they did suggest applying for legal guardianship which i thought i may look into.

its really tough

Welcome to the forums @Luna_1 !

I'm sorry to hear you are in a similar space.

I'm hearing as similar story: Unless the person is a danger to themselves or others, 'the system' cannot do anything unless they agree to it.

I personally don't know what else can be done. These are answers I've been seeking for a while now. I'm going to ask around as I see how important it is.

I really hope things work out for you @Luna_1 @Cinepoet and others reading along. I certainly hear how hard things are.