We had a family therapy visit with my mom, on Tuesday. At the psych hospital, where she is inpatient for schizoaffective disorder. Full blown psychotic break. Catatonia and everything.
It started out ok, but then when someone mentioned paranoia, she freaked the f*** out. I gave her some examples, to help her understand the paranoia she’s had for a long, long time, but the situation only escalated. She was yelling that we’re all liars and hate her (me, Hubby, brother 1, and brother 2).
The therapist was trying to calm her down, but my mom just screamed about the therapist being on the kids’ side. She then called the therapist a b***h… twice…
My siblings, me, and my husband were taken back to the lobby. Everybody was really shaken. I was sorta crying but trying not to.
Not a great experience. My mom thinks she’s “all better” and ready to go home, but she still has 0 insight. And now she believes we all hate her and just want her trapped there forever.
Anyway… Just getting it off my chest.
My own mental health is taking a dive. I can’t keep it together. I’m losing my own sanity.
What did you expect from her? Because calling someone out on their paranoia is the worst thing you can do? She has to be personally admitting herself first when she gets things wrong
It’s not so simple. We were keeping it light. I can’t remember what was said that made the visit go downhill. But we were trying to keep the conversation light, from the start. She’s very angry, in general, with a short fuse, right now, which is completely opposite of how she is when she is in a heathier headspace.
hey @Blossom im really sorry to hear about your struggles right now. Your mom sounds really sick, but dont worry many many people start to gain insight when theyre steady on meds. Just give it some time. they can take months to work sometimes. Im wishing you both health and peace. it will come soon just trust the process. I would say let your family deal with your mom at this point though… youve given all you can. Theres a saying “dont try to be more generous than God.” If life has given you so much strength, then thats what you have. If you cant go any further you need to acknowledge your limits. I think its very brave of you to still engage with your mom in this state though even though its triggering (not that its her fault, this illness sucks).
You both will make it out and be happy again, just give it time. Maybe you need a little time away from this all to gain your stregth again. Anyways i dont mean to pry. Best of luck
Just want to add to the other replies that I’m sorry you’re dealing with such a hard situation. I can relate, both my sister and I believe our mom is bipolar but she has absolutely zero insight and zero medication.
Please be gentle with yourself and keep reaching out for support. We’re all here for you.
