How to treat chronic mental illness in someone?

Question

Hi doctor,

My mother passed away recently, and I live with my father now. My father and mother had a very tense relationship, and my father even used to hit her during the early days of their marriage. However, they did not file a divorce because they wanted their children, meaning my brother and me, to have a normal childhood. But during the end days of my mother, my father suddenly started taking good care of my mother. After she passed away, I got mentally ill and had to leave my studies and come back home to live with my father. He has supported me since then, and sometimes I do not feel like mother is gone. I do not know how this transformation occurred in him, and I do not know how I should react to this. I do not know if I should believe that he has changed his heart and supported and loved him like I used to love my mother. Please help me see things.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Regarding the change in your father's behavior. Yes, it often happens that people change. They realize their mistakes and feel guilt, but it becomes too late. For example, your father may feel deep remorse and guilt after your mother's death. Maybe this thing that he did not treat her well throughout his life haunted him. As people grow, they realize their life partner's s worth in old age, and they miss their partner more than in their young days. In this situation, I suggest you talk to your father. Let him disclose his heart to you. Communicate with him as he needs it.

Thank you.