Psychology

» redback - worth the effort?

In response to Mental illness and schizophrenia. posted by pink101:
There's a technique that sounds great in theory but can look contrived, when responding to any delusion or hallucination. It's in one of the books I referred to above ('I'm not sick...') by Dr Xavier Amador. Get to see one of his lectures if you get the chance. He was a guest keynote speaker here in 2005...highly effective speaker...very hard act to follow:
http://www.xavieramador.com/

Don't argue about their reality nor agree with their delusion. One common area of agreement is you don't want them back in hospital. Empathise with their frustrations, fears, discomfort, desires...but not that for example, the belief the CIA has implanted microchips. Maybe that's enough for empathy but if they really want you to talk about your belief (in the delusion) delay your opinion as long as you can...then try: "I would feel the same if I was in your shoes, but..."

I'm not sure I've come even close to mastering it but I do listen to people share their insecurities and topics of interest to them. "G'day, mate" to the homeless...and sincerity. Friends come with no pre-requisites. Eggshells and my wife were synonymous terms.

Who knows who truly understands the most in this. And by now, it's not pain for me...just impatience with status quo.

-- posted by redback