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Saturday, May 24, 2008 1234567 asks

Q: Over a year ago someone was told by voices how to kill me, do I assume he will always want to?

Shortly after I got married my husbands brother said I ruined his life and was overheard talking to voices on how he was going to kill me.  He was institutionalized for a couple months (1 1/2years ago).  6 months ago he called a friend of the family and was telling her how he was going to kill her, again he was institutionalized for another couple months.  For now he is state ordered to have a drug injected into him every couple of weeks.  The reason for my question is my husband and I are expecting our first child and I am due in a few weeks, his brother lives with his parents and I am having  a huge issue with the thought of my baby being in the same house as him even if I am there and even if it is only for a visit with his folks.  I did nothing to provoke his feelings towards me, in fact the three of us used to hang out all the time just because we wanted to try to help him live a "normal" life,  then one day he hated me.  I  just don't know if I can trust him.  Please help me find an answer I don't want to cause a problem if I am over reacting.  My husband thinks I am, but he is his brother.

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Answers (1)
Christina Bruni, Health Guide
5/27/08 8:01pm

1234567,

 

I understand the delicate nature of the situation, as this is your husband's brother you're talking about and he is a member of the family, and your husband will be reluctant to make waves or do anything differently.

 

However, the brother needs to take his meds every day as prescribed, and even doing that, he could have residual symptoms, like hearing voices.  Not all drugs alleviate all symptoms at all times.

 

You can't be too safe or too sorry, especially if the brother decides to discontinue his drug treatment, he could be prone to violence if his symptoms are untreated.  That is the reality and I'm going to get flak from other peer advocates for saying this, but there have been cases where patients who slip through the cracks commit crimes.

 

I would say, be honest with your husband about your concerns, and ask for a compromise solution: maybe you can visit the brother at the home, and keep a careful eye on your new baby.  You will have to take it day-by-day and week-by-week with the brother to see if the medication is having an effect, if he's taking it regularly, and to allay your fears and determine if you can trust him.

 

Your concern is natural and I would feel the same way if I were in your shoes.

 

Best wishes,

Chri

 

 

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By 1234567— Last Modified: 06/14/12, First Published: 05/24/08