QUESTION:
Dear Dr. Heller,
My sister, 37 years old, was diagnosed as paranoid schizophrenic suffering from drug abuse 4 years ago. She insists that there's nothing wrong with her. The state mental hospital said they can't treat her unless she wants to be treated. She can't get a job and lives at home with my mother. My mother is in early stage Alzheimer's. There's a long sad story here. I'm filing for guardianship of my mother. What can I do to help my sister who hates me?
ANSWER:
The first thing you must recognize is that she has a horrible brain disorder that
prevents the "real" person from coming out. She did nothing to cause it, and
doesn't have the ability to control it - although medication can make a huge
difference. Patients with paranoid schizophrenia rarely recognize that they need
medication and often quit and pursue street drugs.
Your main issue is a legal and moral one. Are you willing to pursue involuntary commitment
to a mental health institution, or assume legal guardianship for her? It's not a
minor issue, and other family members (particularly your spouse and children) must be
consulted and considered regarding the heartache and time/financial commitments it will
take to get your sister treated against her will. If you wish to pursue that course you
should consult your local state agency regarding getting her help, and/or speak to an
attorney familiar with this issue.
