Should You Contact a Psychiatric Ward If Your Mother Is Acting Like a 'Nut Case' and Throwing Objects?

When a family member starts behaving erratically, especially in a way that presents a danger to themselves or others, it can be challenging to know what to do. What if your mother is acting like a 'nut case' and throwing glasses and other objects around the house? Here’s guidance on how to approach such a situation, along with links to critical resources.

Approach a Calm Conversation First

Before taking any drastic steps, it’s a good idea to approach your mother calmly and with understanding. Lower your voice and stay composed. Here's a suggested way to handle the conversation:

Speak in a calm, measured tone and acknowledge her feeling: "I hear that you are really angry about something. Would you like to talk about it?"

Encourage her to sit down and offer her a glass of water. Calm conversations often require a relaxed atmosphere.

If she continues to exhibit such behavior, remind her that you are willing to listen and talk when she is calmer. Then, politely leave and give her space.

When to Call the Police

There are times when a calm conversation isn’t enough, and it’s necessary to take more urgent action. If your mother’s behavior indicates she is a danger to herself or others, call the police immediately. This is critical because unauthorized actions like forcibly putting someone in a hospital can have legal ramifications.

"If she continues the behavior and you feel it's a danger to herself and others, you should call the police immediately."

The police will have the authority to assess the situation and may decide to take your mother to a psychiatric ward for evaluation and treatment.

Contacting a Psychiatric Ward

While a psychiatric ward can be contacted, they lack the legal authority to detain anyone against their will. They can only offer advice on how to proceed, such as speaking to your mother, or contacting law enforcement if necessary.

Here are some scenarios:

You may contact a psychiatric ward to seek advice on how to approach the situation. The best they can do is provide guidance and offer resources to help support your mother.

If they fail to influence your mother, you should report the situation to the police. They can make a decision based on the assessment of her condition.

If you are a child or there is a child in the household, contact child protection services. They can offer assistance and intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of the family.

Talking to a Doctor

In cases where mental health concerns are paramount, talking to your mother’s doctor is a crucial step. A medical professional can offer insights into her condition and provide recommendations on the next steps.

However, if you believe she is an immediate danger to herself or others, contacting the police is the best and safer option. The police can intervene and bring her to a hospital for immediate evaluation and treatment if necessary.

Immediate Danger

When every moment counts, the decision to call emergency services might be unavoidable. If you realize that your mother is an immediate danger to herself or others, don't hesitate to call 911 or your country’s emergency service number.

"If you feel she is an immediate danger to herself or others, you should absolutely call 911 or the number for emergency services in your country."

The emergency response team will be able to assess the situation on the spot and determine the best course of action. This may include taking her to a hospital for further evaluation and treatment.

Conclusion

Dealing with a family member in a mental health crisis can be extremely challenging, but taking the right steps can make all the difference. Remember, remaining calm, speaking clearly, and offering support can help, but don't hesitate to seek professional help when the situation escalates to a point of danger.

If you need further information or resources, don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional or local support services in your area.