If you intend to continue with him, then probably you should read a few books about these type of questions, not just learn question by question, but so you feel a bit prepared. One of the best things I learned is ‘Don’t argue with a delusion.’ In fact, I have (finally!) learned not to argue at all. I wish i had learned that years ago. In any conflict, whether if emotion or intellect, seek agreement, seek common ground. So, with delusions, ask open questions, be open to his idea but be honest. So, on walking through walls, ‘Yes, sure. How do you do that? When do you want to do it?’ You’ll be surprised how often agreement allows HIM to challenge his own delusions.’ Of course, if he says ‘Let’s fly off the top of a building together’, you can say, 'Let’s start with a three-inch high wall and work our way up. You may be able to do that but I have no experience of it.'
I did this with my son, ‘I am sure you can see x or y. I believe you but I am not seeing it.’ He started 'reality testing for himself and as far as I know has no more visions or visual delusions these days. But I never argued with him about ‘reality’. A dog can hear and smell things better than me. A bird can see better than me. I am not the boss of what is ‘real’ and what is not. All I can say I what I can see, hear, smell and feel. And then by discussion human beings decide what everyone can see, hear, smell etc and what is necessary to know to survive. That’s the approach I took with my son and he is well now and doesn’t feel small or weird or unacceptable.
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