Partner new on antipsychotic medication

[Bluemama]

I feel really helpness and scare when my partner having psychosis episode. We have a infant baby and I don't really know our future as I am so scared about our family future . Partner still don't think he needs treatment .

[james1]

Hey bluemama,

I'm so sorry to hear about your situation. It sounds really hard especially with your new child (congratulations!).

It is very difficult when someone doesn't believe they need treatment and I just want to emphasise that your safety, and that of your child, is the most important thing. If your partner can't take care of himself, and refuses to get help, that is his burden to bear.

Without knowing more about your situation, it is hard for me to offer much more. I have never had to deal with psychotic episodes but perhaps someone else can help more with that.

If you feel safe, perhaps you can share more of what is burdening you and how you feel?

It sounds like there's just a lot of trouble at home and that you need a bit of help with that. Perhaps some joint counselling with your partner could help as then it would feel like less of an attack on him, and more how you can work together to make sure your child has the best upbringing.

James

[MsPurple]

Hi Bluemama and welcome to the BB forums.

It sounds like you are in a very stressful time at the moment. I commend you for reaching out and opening up for support. It also shows that you are a good mother and partner for coming her for support because you are trying to look after your family.

Although I have never had a psychotic episode I know how it can be difficult for someone with a mental illness to accept treatment. Sometimes you feel like if you aren't getting treated then you don't have the condition and therefore you will not have to deal with it. I know from an outsiders perspective this may sound silly but for a while this is how I felt. Maybe he is struggling to accept his condition or the severity of it. Maybe discusss this with him if you think he would be willing to talk about it with you. Or maybe as James said, going to counselling with him and talking about your concerns.

Another thing I could suggest is maybe seeing a social worker, preferably one that specialises in mental health. They can offer you family support. (A Social worker is an academic and practice-based professional discipline that seeks to facilitate the welfare of communities, individuals, families, and groups). They are especially good if you have concerns about your home life and wellbeing as well as your partners. Use the following link (from the beyond blue website) to find out more information on social worker and how to find a practitioner if it is something you would consider https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/who-can-assist . I am not saying this is necessarily the right thing for you to do but it is an option you can look into and discuss with your GP if needed.

Hope this helps.

MP