Don’t beat yourself up when you explode. Of course we all know that is the worst thing to do, but hey no one is perfect, right?
My son has had some wild delusions about me. Most of the time I am non committal and don’t take it personally, but today I was tired and headachy so when he started, I snapped I don’t have time for this, I have a headache. Much to my surprise he backed down and went about his day. Later he asked if I still had a headache.
My point is, they are afraid most of the time and trying to figure things out and come up with some really strange ideas. If we take it personally to them that is proof they are right. And the more you try to prove they are wrong, the more sure they are right. It just becomes an exhausting battle of wills.
Often I just say things like, oh really or how did you decide that or why do you think that about me and then pretty much let it go. After all, I know I didn’t do most of the things he thinks. And sometimes I may have done something innocently that he took to heart. Then I just say I am sorry.
This just applies to more of the day to day stuff we deal with in a non aggressive manner. If he is acting or you believe he will act on any of his aggressive behavior, call the police. It might also be worthwhile to check on your community services in dealing with mentally ill prior to a situation of violence. Some communities have separate crisis teams. Mentally ill or not, aggression is not tolerable. And a psychotic break is a whole other story and requires medical intervention.
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