What To Do if Your Relative Refuses to Take Medication

Source: Thresholds Newletter

There are many reasons why a person may not want to take medication, but family members have a right to expect their relative to take medication regularly. Medication is vital to the successful treatment of mental illness. One of the best ways to address compliance with your relative is to talk about it in a non-judgmental, open manner. If you suspect your relative is not taking her medication, ask her about it.

Some suggestions to help families encourage their loved ones to take medication as prescribed are:

1. Highlight the benefits of medication:

·          Helps to deal with uncomfortable symptoms

·          Helps to stay out of the hospital

·          Helps with achieving goals

2. Address side effect issues:

·          Talk with psychiatrist about side effects you have observed or ones that the member has told you about

·          Ask doctor if a reduced dosage, change of medication, change in time of medication, or a side effect medication would be helpful

·          Ask about newer medications, which generally have fewer side effects

3. Build medication compliance into daily routine:

·          Connect medication time into other daily activities, such as when eating breakfast or brushing teeth

·          Think of creative ways to remind your family member to always take his medication

4. Simplify the medication routine:

·          The easier the medication regime, the more willing and able one will be to follow it.

·          Talk to the doctor about fewer medications or fewer medication times (medication changes can only be prescribed by the doctor; always consult the doctor before making any changes)

5. Consider injectable medications:

·          Many medications can be taken in injectable form, which eliminates the need for daily pills

·          Many of the injectable medications can work for as long as a month

·          Shots can be given at psychiatrist appointments which decreases the burden on the member or family to control and administer the medication.

For more information about mental illness, Contact:

The National Alliance on Mental Illness

NAMI of Greater Chicago

1536 West Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

Phone: 312-563-0445  FAX: 312-563-0467

Namigc.org  Email: INFO@NAMIGC.ORG