Hello everone,
Please comment , and feel free to disagree.. I am trying to learn!
My recent understanding is that we all experience illusion/ misinterpret reality as it presents to us occasionally, but that people with paranoid schizophrenia may have particular difficulty in cross-reference checking,that helpful mental exercise which allows non-sufferers to be reassured that the illusion was just 'a trick of the light' or whatever, and drop/ forget the momentary anxiety ,confusion, and move on.
Not so for someone with sz, untreated. The worrying illusion needs an explanation,the sz brain comes up with a delusion as a working solution, even though by necessity the anxiety will be externalised and maintained as 'real', a perceived threat perhaps, which is not left behind but keeps reccurring, and may be incorporated into network / plot of connected 'explanations' that perpetuate....
This is where I think my son is at the moment. No wonder he is suffering and I feel helpless.
By the way I do like the idea of renaming sz, integration disorder or similar, as the Japanese have done, seems a very good idea.
Next post, should be lighter ,a few of my own illusions and similar!
Chris UK
If you want a fish don't go climbing trees
Chinese proverb
Hi Chris,
You have written about what goes on in a different way than others do, and yet in your own words you've described vividly the experience of schizophrenia.
Am I to understand you son isn't taking medication for his symptoms, or that he's on medication, yet has breakthrough symptoms?
You may want to read my SharePost titled, "Understanding Delusions," that also talks about this symptom.
With your love and compassion, your son will see this thing through.
I know you care deeply about him and don't want to see him in pain.
So understand that in their own way, delusions do serve a purpose.
Peace,
cb
Thanks Christina for your reply and giving encouragement.
Yes, I have just gone to read your sharepost on understanding delusions. It is very interesting, and certainly seems to link with what I have been feeling, when listening carefully to our son.That rational core of self concept is helpful. It is also easy to see where frustration arises, when someone close is unable to 'swallow' the whole delusional explanation, even if it is carefully heard,accepted as seriously believed and not actively rejected.(which takes practice! but I think I am getting better at it) Must say it has become much easier, almost a relief, although a sad one of changed prospects, since we (my husband and myself) have accepted this is a serious illness, and wishful thinking,humouring/ excuses for his 'foibles' is no longer appropriate or helpful)
Our son fits the 'I am not sick' group at present, and so has not been formally diagnosed, but it is very clear now that he has persistent paranoid delusions, a definite florid psychotic episode one year ago, and other symptoms that fit.Verging on another florid psychosis again now. He is 28.
I know he would feel so much better with treatment.If only...We are working on it.
This site is a great support anyway.
Thanks
Chris
UK