Quote Originally Posted by Queen of Poop View Post
Sorry for making everyone wait for an update.

Finally, we know what is wrong. More or less. Schizophrenia. But my dad's not typical. He's been able to hold a job, have a marriage and a family (sort of) and is highly intelligent.

My mom is having trouble accepting that he may not come home, that no amount of meds will make him safe to be out.
Having the diagnosis is very helpful in treatment, and for the family to understand a bit of what is going on with him.

I am sure this is hard for your mum to adjust to, such a big unexpected change. She probably figured they'd go on until one of them dropped dead, or had to go to a nursing home. Just vague "sometime in the future" stuff. Suddenly, as with any chronic illness, the future has changed plus has arrived, all at once. It does take time to wrap your head around such suddenness. It's not just that, but all the things she had planned for them together are now gone, as well. Give her time, let her talk. You also will feel all sorts of things, and need to as well.

Sometimes, understanding the illness helps, sometimes knowing he is safe and well cared for helps. Sometimes visiting and seeing him carry on that she's not his wife, she's an imposter, helps to sink in the new situation.

Blessings to all of you at this time. Please try to find some peace with this.