head banging in adults

[Nic2010]

Hi,
I just want a little advice really. I have just found out my mum has been banging her head against the wall when stressed. I am really worried about the effects this can have eg. brain damage,stroke etc. She has been depressed for many years and has been on anti depressants for most of my life ( i am now 30). She relies on my uncle for both emotional and practical needs and as a result is causing alot of friction in the family and i feel like i am stuck in the middle. We have never had a great relationship and have never been close as i never felt she met my needs as a child (i am an only child and it was just us two) and alot went on i dont want to go into. She is now living in semi sheltered accomodation and should have more support around but this doesnt seem to be the case. She is very stubborn and wont listen when I tell her to go to the doctors or talk to a professional and i really dont know what else to do. I know she is depressed and gets very easily stressed but banging her head is new thing and i am worried

[ann_h]

Head banging is not ordinary depression. You absolutely must speak to her doctor about reviewing her medication and support needs. You may be able to get a home visit from a community psychiatric nurse if she won't go in to the clinic herself.

[suzie1]

ann is right make sure you have a visit from a doctor and psychiatrist, they might section her for her own safety, head banging is not normal and means serious depression, i have seen it before and it leads to other things.

[MarkRae]

I agree totally with the other replies. This needs addressing IMMEDIATELY and, by that, I mean a call tomorrow morning even though it's a Sunday...

[suzie1]

dont worry, im sure she will be ok with the right help, we are here for you if you need a chat at any time, take care and keep us informed of your mums progress. How old is she and if she wont go to docs, please take the docs to her.

[Nic2010]

thanks so much for your advice