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kristykay17 Asked October 2017

My cousin was diagnosed with schizophrenia at an early age. He's in his late 30's now. He's reverted back to who he was when he was little. How do I help him?

He recently was put into assisted living as his folks couldn't take it anymore. From what I understand, he lashes out, is very very angry, disoriented, hears voices on a constant basis, etc. He was living with his folks for about 7 months and they couldn't get a handle on getting the right medications again. It's so odd to me as he was doing great for many, many years. I remember keeping in touch with him yearly and he would tell me that he's working the same job, had the same gf, and same old life. Then all of a sudden I hear he's not doing very well at all. I want to be there for him. He was very fond of me and I of him...he was seriously the sweetest person I've EVER met. So soft spoken, quiet, calm, and sweet. The person he is now, isn't who he is. I wish there was more I can do. As a matter of fact there is. I will be praying for him. He needs my fervent prayers. My question is, how do I help him? I want to go see him but I don't want him to feel uncomfortable. Recently I've heard from his folks that he doesn't even know what he's living for. Oh this just breaks my heart!!! Oh I love my cousin so much.... Help!!! Thank you all and may God bless you.

Eyerishlass Oct 2017
Would he enjoy a visit from you? That's one thing you can do to help. Offer comfort to him and an opportunity to feel "normal" by having a guest over.

I love jeannegibbs idea of email or even a letter both to your cousin and his parents. A handwritten note is such a lovely gesture. 

jeannegibbs Oct 2017
Schizophrenia is not a do-it-yourself project. I hope your cousin is in the care of a psychiatrist. It can be very difficult to fine tune medications for any mental illness, and I understand that schizophrenia is particularly challenging.

It is very good that you want to be there for your cousin. Are you near enough to visit him at the ALF? If not, I hope you can contact him frequently. Does he use email? Keep conversations light. If he lashes out at you, don't take it personally. Just keep being friendly to him.

Your aunt and uncle are probably devastated by this development. This is not what any parent wants for their child. A friendly note to them once in a while would probably be a nice gesture, too.

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GardenArtist Oct 2017
I would think that his meds would need adjustment as he ages. Do you know if that's been done? It could easily be the cause of his behavioral changes.

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