hi,
I currently have a family member who I believe is experiencing a psychotic break or is in the beginning of a state of psychosis.
In the past, this family member has been hospitalised due to a psychotic episode. During the time of hospitalisation, they were medicated and left the facility. They continued to take their medication and were doing really well.
Lately, I believe that this family member has stopped taking their medication, it is obvious because of their behaviour changes and demeanour.
The family member has been telling their friends that they have been hearing messages through the TV and that if they do not perform certain things such as religious acts, then they will go to hell. They also believe themselves and their family are being ‘targeted’ or will be harmed.
In the past when this family member had a psychotic episode, it was extremely stressful for other family members and I do not want to go through this again. We have a significant family event this year and I worry that this family member will not be able to attend due to being unwell and it will be absolutely heartbreaking.
When family members try to help them, they just refuse and lie about not taking the medication. I honestly don’t know what to do because this cannot keep happening. I already know that the person cannot be admitted to a mental health centre unless they are a threat to themselves or others. Last time they were hospitalised, it was voluntary.
I’m really unsure what to do, any advice would be helpful.
