My mother is suffering from a mental disorder for 24 years. Can she recover?

Question

Hi doctor,

My mother has been suffering from a mental disorder for 24 years (from my birth). My dad took her to the hospital and gave her the treatment, but no use even after two years of prescribed medicine. It had been 20 years of not using any medicine and treatment. Since my birth, I did not have my mother's love and care. Now I want to get her treated. Her condition right now is healthy. She does not remember anyone. She is quiet and calm. Sometimes does whatever we tell her to do.

Is there any chance to recover?

Please give me some advice as I do not know what to do?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I am sorry to hear about your situation. I can imagine how hard it must be for you. You have not mentioned the diagnosis in your query, so I cannot suggest what needs to be done, but I will explain how it works. The fact that you mentioned that she does not remember anyone could be a part of

1. Dementia for which you would require a neurologist. Medications can help to an extent.

2. Psychosis or Depression can have such reactions. You will require a Psychiatrist for this.

A complete evaluation is required. The doctor might do a CT (computed tomography) or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) depending on the symptoms and start treatment accordingly, and yes, medications can help to an extent depending on the severity of the issue. One way is to get her treated on an OPD (operationalized psychodynamic diagnosis) basis at home with the guidance of the doctor, or you can opt for residential treatment facilities which keep the patient in the facility and there is a holistic approach to treatment where doctor, nurses, therapist, etc. works as a team in recovery. I would need more information about symptoms or need to talk to your mother to be able to understand what she is going through.

I hope this helps.

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Take care.