My sister has paranoid schiz for over 33 yrs. It has taken a toll on me, I am her only sister, (older). no parents, and only one brother, younger. My sister (ms) is soooo bad, she is soooo angry with everyone, and me, there is nothing we can do to help her, and the freekin laws do not allow adults to 'be controlled'!! she needs help but refuses. i need more support because it is making me nuts.....
Featuring Content From:
By using this service, you accept our Terms of Use. Please read them. The consumer health information on is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. You should promptly seek professional medical care if you have any concern about your health, and you should always consult your physician before starting a fitness regimen. Copyright © 2012 Remedy Health Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Hello,
It is not easy for you. I understand that.
The toll this has taken on you and the weariness you must feel trying to help your sister when she doesn't want your help has been great. You need others to support you and here at the Connection we will support you in what you're going through.
Within one diagnosis-schizophrenia-there are varying experiences for the people that have this medical condition. A lot of people diagnosed with schizophrenia have a symptom called anosognosia, which is the term that describes the lack of awareness that you have an illness.
Xavier Amador, PhD wrote the book I Am Not Sick, I Don't Need Help (Vida Press 2007) that coaches family members on how to talk to their loved ones to persuade them to seek treatment and stay in treatment.
You mention this has been going on for your sister's whole life. You may want to read the Amador book anyway (at least if you can, check it out of the library if not buy it) because it might give you some techniques to use.
You do not mention if your sister lives in a supported residence or a group home and that might be an option for her as opposed to her living with you or your brother.
Lastly I will close out this response by saying that you might want to contact your local NAMI affiliate to join a family support group for family members whose loved ones have mental illnesses. Call their national hotline (800) 950-NAMI (6264) to get the name and phone number of the local chapter in your city or town.
Regret I have a different experience with the schizophrenia so at this point I'm going to defer to other community members here whose situation with their loved ones might be similar. I'm aware of many people at this website who have had great difficulties similar to what you are going through.
I hope you can find some moments of peace this holiday season.
Feel free to write back.
Regards,
Christina
Thanks Christine,
I will get the book. My sister lives alone in a duplex, one bedroom, with one sweetest cat,(who I am afraid will run away from her) she had 2 but the other one ran away after the incident.