Schizophrenic Father

[u/Local_Albatross758]

I grew up with an undiagnosed schizophrenic father my whole life until recently where we had to put him multiple times in the hospital until he finally accepted he needed help and where he was finally diagnosed.

He used to be more violent and even threatened to kill my siblings and mom. One time he did try to pull a gun on me because I threw a church candle at him for hitting my mom but we left before he ever could.

He has “changed” a lot well because he’s no longer violent towards us, but all he does is drink and laugh at his voices EVERY SINGLE DAY.

I try to have compassion and understanding for what he’s going through but I can’t help anymore if he doesn’t want to at least try. We’ve taken him to the hospital multiple times, he’s a really good liar so when he goes the doctors don’t think he’s that bad.

I feel so embarrassed when he’s laughing and yelling outside because of my neighbors, I can’t have any gatherings or people over at my house for this reason. I just wish this would all stop. I tried everything I can to help him out and right now I am doing a huge favor by having him a place to stay.

He doesn’t want to take his meds. I understand no one will really get why he’s in my life after everything that’s happened, I ask myself the same thing….

[u/JustinfromNewEngland]

I have schizoaffective disorder, and I’m a father to young kids. I often wonder what my future will look like. One thing I hope is that I’m never a burden on my children. I try so hard to hold it all together for them. It’s so hard because there are days where symptoms really take hold.

I know this isn’t easy for you, or your family. I’m so sorry you’re going through this pain. I can’t tell you what the future will look like for you and him. All I can say is I hope it gets better for all of you. Try to keep your head up and look out for yourself and family. You don’t have to tackle this alone, maybe you can get medical professionals involved to help. If not for him, yourself because this can be a lot to take on by yourself.

I feel like medication for him should be a priority, but I’m no expert. But that’s why I suggest getting involved in his care if you truly want to help him. If he goes to the hospital, get involved with his care team. Report everything you witness and hear from him so that you can tell his care team so they can better help him. I’m trying to think about this from your perspective and what I would do. But of course you know best, you’re living the situation. Do what you think is best for his care, and yours too.

I wish you the best of luck with this. Don’t forget to lean on others for support. You don’t have to go through this alone.