Hello, I have a question for anyone who has a significant other that is diagnosed with schizophrenia. My girlfriend is recently diagnosed at 52 but has been like this all her life according to her sister. I just want to know Do you ever feel like you are completely over the disease and the person? She refuses medicine and they cant force it in her since she is no danger to anyone. I would like to know how you go on, and how you deal with constant psychosis? I am at my wits end with her and losing my care for her I still love her, but I do not know how much more I can take of the constant psychosis.
As sad as it is, coping skills only get you so far. You have to decide if the relationship is worth the effort. Especially when they deny they have a problem. For the past twenty years I have gone above and beyond to be supportive of a sibling. I can’t do it anymore. I honestly wish I had made the choice a long time ago. Whatever you decide I hope and pray you don’t lose yourself trying to help someone else.
Thank You. I am l may have to do that I may have to cut her off in order for me to have some peace.
I can yell you I am at my wits end too. I don’t know what else to say about that. It’s exhausting for sure
There is a link to estrogen possibly with late onset symptoms in women
Edit I meant “i can tell you”
Thank You for your understanding. I am glad I'm not alone because sometimes I feel this way.
I think it would be perfectly reasonable to say that without medication you’re unwilling to continue the relationship.
The problem with boundaries is that they can feel like you’re trying to punish someone. But that’s not what boundaries are at all. They’re not just for you, they’re for the other person too.
That being said, your needs are not secondary to someone else’s.
Thank You. You know I have not tried that before. That is actually a good idea. I may see if I can try this.
Just to be clear:
I was unaware of this ailment when we first started our relationship, she seemed quite normal with some pent up issues but nothing remotely close to constant psychosis plus she wasn't diagnosed until this year and she was 52 going on 53 which I stated above, we have been together since she was 49 she never knew and her family just chalked it up to her being herself and picking up on her grandmothers habits who was also schizophrenic however nobody knew that until she died because for the longest they just thought it was part of her personality. I am the one who started her on the journey for better mental health however I cannot force her to do anything, and neither will the law or her doctor since she is no harm to anyone I have tried lying to her to make her take the meds she just doesn't want to nor does she believe she is schizophrenic. I just let her be BUT as I said I am at my wits end, she reminds me of a toddler with an imaginary friend. It is a lot caring for someone with schizophrenia and delusional disorder. I have tried to include her family however they have nothing to do with her. They don't call or text or try to check up on her. So, it's all on me. I don't go out with her anymore because I am embarrassed and frustrated when we do. This is new to me especially since I have mental issues of my own but not anywhere near as severe as her. I am simply looking for coping mechanisms that aren't on Google and can help me cope with her constant psychosis.
I am sorry you are dealing with someone who is in denial about their diagnosis. That may be the deal breaker as to whether or not your relationship continues. You may prefer to be a friend to her, but not her significant other. I hope you have the support you need through therapy. You sound very caring. I wish you luck.
Thank You. I have been contemplating the move from girlfriend to just friend for a while now but when I do it feels like I'm turning my back on her. I know I'm not but my brain will not acknowledge the difference.