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Basic InformationMore InformationLookupsLatest NewsGoogle Search Trends Suggest Mental Woes Vary by SeasonsU.S. Must Step Up Response to Vets, Report SaysNews Coverage of Shootings May Boost Stigma of Mental IllnessADHD Can Often Persist Into AdulthoodChildhood Bullying Linked to Adult Psychiatric OutcomesShared Genes May Link ADHD, Autism and DepressionMarked Geographic Variation in Mental Health Medication UseSocial Withdrawal, Isolation Should Be Addressed in YoungMental Disorders Linked With Domestic Violence, Study SaysWorkplace Bullying Takes Toll on Witnesses Too, Study FindsADHD Can Cause Lifelong Problems, Study FindsConcerns for Long-Term Safety of Antipsychotics in Over 40sSAMHSA: Prevalence of Mental Illness in U.S. Stable in 2011Psychiatry Gets Revised Diagnostic ManualMental Illness Affects 1 in 5 U.S. Adults, Survey FindsLong-Term Use of Some Antipsychotics Not Warranted in Older Adults: StudyFor Many, 'Superstorm' Sandy Could Take Toll on Mental HealthDeployment Affects Mental Health of Relief WorkersPhysical Ailments Take Toll on Mental Health: StudySerious Mental Illness Tied to Higher Cancer, Injury Risk: StudiesAging Boomers' Mental Health Woes Will Swamp Health System: ReportFamily History of Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder May Up Kids' Risk for AutismMental Health Woes Raise Odds for Prescription Painkiller Abuse Questions and AnswersLinksBook Reviews |
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Delusional FriendFri, Jul 2nd 2004What is the best way to deal with a paranoid persons delusional behavior. I recently became re-acquainted with an old friend who is now a disabled, lonely woman. She is obsessed with notions that people terrorize her and are constantly plotting against her. She believes people break into her apartment and destroy things, and that her enemies are "getting to" the people she is close to and turning them against her. I hate to abandon her, but don't know how to deal with her delusions. Is it best to just act like I believe all this stuff and sympathize or try to be gently realistic with her. She does see a therapist and psychiatrist - but clearly her condition has worsened over the past 10 years. By the way, her paranoia is what caused the fall-out between us 10 years ago. She has alienated everyone who tries to be her friend and help her. I hate to abandon her since she is physically disable as well - but I don't know how to respond to her. THE ANSWER TO THIS QUESTION WILL NOT BE DISPLAYED UNTIL YOU HAVE INDICATED YOUR AGREEMENT WITH THE DISCLAIMER PRINTED JUST BELOW. CLICK THE 'I AGREE' BUTTON TO AGREE TO THESE TERMS AND SEE THE RESPONSE.
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