At 26 years old, with a 4 year old little girl, I find myself totally in love with a man who suffers from schizophrenia. He was diagnosed a little over a year ago, having had dilusions and episodes for quite some time, never seeking treatment. Since he has had treatment, he has had no ...
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Single Mom
Christina Bruni
Wednesday, July 11, 2007 at 11:30 AMre: Single Mom
livnatural
Monday, July 16, 2007 at 04:29 PMIt is so encouraging to read some of the success stories on this site. There is such a stigma attached to schizophrenia that is completely unecessary. I wish more people were in touch with the positive outcomes and aspects. Thanks so much for your advice!
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Posted 12/02 Comments (2)
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Hello Livnatural,
You may want to read the post "Marrying someone with Schizophrenia."
I'm not sure where you uncovered the research about poor treatment outcomes. 60% of the people diagnosed with schizophrenia recover fully or significantly improve.
Most people, fearing the stigma, do not disclose their illness. This does a disservice to everyone because the people doing well aren't the ones in the spotlight.
If you read my posts, and Robin's, and the others here, you will see that recovery is possible, and relationships are possible.
The key is for your boyfriend to continue to take his meds. Schizophrenia requires life-long treatment and pharmacotherapy.
Talk with your boyfriend. Moving in with him might give you a good sense of how it would be if you're married.
That said, go slow. What does your intuition tell you? Let your boyfriend know your concerns. Ask him if he has a contingency plan in case he ever has to go into the hospital or suffers a relapse.
Also ask him what his goals are and plans for the future.
Lastly, assure him you care for him even though you have concerns. Because the truth is, most people with schizophrenia recover. As an advocate, I see that too often those of us doing well aren't the ones who get the attention.
Schizophrenia is highly treatable.
Write back and let us know how it's going.
Best wishes,
Chris
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