Schizophrenia - General Discussion

What are the most obvious and common symptoms of schizophrenia—the specific signs you might actually notice in someone

Benjamin Hernandez8 said:What are the most obvious and common symptoms of schizophrenia—the specific signs you might actually notice in someone

Let me just Google that for you.

Eric Gray2 said:Let me just Google that for you.

Look, I already did my due diligence on Google—but honestly, I think we should be focusing on the ones that are actually visible in the immediate vicinity.

Hey everyone, hope you're all doing well!

I've gone through this entire thread and I'm asking if the original poster, Out of the blue (Blur...), could please send me a private message. I really need to get in touch.

Wishing you all some peace.

Larry Lewis said:Where have you all gone, you absolute lunatics? Back in the hospital again, I suppose—creeping around trying to peek under the nurses' skirts while drooling over your pills and packing on weight like a pig at a state fair...

🤣🤣🤣

Benjamin Hernandez8 said:What are the most obvious and common symptoms of schizophrenia—the specific signs you might actually notice in someone

That’s wild!

Larry Lewis said:Where have you all gone, you absolute lunatics? Back in the hospital again, I suppose—creeping around trying to peek under the nurses' skirts while drooling over your pills and packing on weight like a pig at a state fair...

🤣 🤣 🤣

I find myself reflecting on this specific post quite often. I don't suffer from any mental illness; my recent hospital stay was purely for physical health reasons—nothing major, just a routine checkup at a local clinic.

However, let us be clear: none of us are out here peeping under nurses' skirts. If such a thought had even crossed my mind during my brief time in the hospital, I would have judged myself harshly.

For just imagine being stuck in a hospital bed, and because of the side effects from constant blood draws and endless testing, you suddenly experience such intense dizziness that you can't even make it to the restroom—meaning you can't delay your bodily functions, and God forbid a nurse actually has to put a diaper on you.

(And then you'd be left looking under her skirt... though if she ever noticed that... 😵)

Hey everyone.

Don't blame me—I don't have the bandwidth to slog through all 230 pages.

I’ve been noticing symptoms similar to schizophrenia in a friend (if you can even call him that anymore).
I'm guessing most of you agree that the best move is just to run for the hills. At first, I was actually scared to ignore him—he genuinely unnerved me.
I tried playing along—pretending everything he said was true, acting like he actually had superpowers or some kind of 4D insight. But it wasn't enough for him, and I couldn't keep up the act forever.
More than the actual stories, though, his attitude was the problem. He acts "arrogant and haughty. He feels superior, omnipotent, all-knowing, called to give advice, invincible, immune, and 'above the law.'" (I pulled that quote from a site about Narcissistic Personality Disorder).

Anyway, I've distanced myself, and he's stopped pestering me—he's pulling away from everyone now. In his mind, everyone else is beneath him and unworthy of his company, so there's no point in talking to us. He thinks we just don't "get" him and think he's crazy, when really, we're the ones living in a delusion.

My question is: what do I do if he keeps reaching out? Do I sit there and endure the nonsense, or just ghost him entirely?
Also, how do people like this actually seek help? There's zero chance he realizes he's sick or would ever agree to see a psychiatrist, yet I know people with schizophrenia do get treatment. How does that process even start?

And what's your take on all this? To add to the list, he shows these traits: total indifference (he doesn't care about anyone, even regarding death); he constantly perceives changes in himself, others, or nature; he claims his vision has changed; he believes he has an intense sixth sense; he makes prophetic claims about world shifts; he's convinced people are jealous of him; he belittles everything; talks about "energy"; considers himself "chosen"—he even claimed to be God once.
He refuses to work. He looks down on labor and other people's achievements.
He's rarely depressed. Most of the time, he's smiling.

He’s used hallucinogens and weed. After using psychedelics, he had experiences that convinced him he has special powers. He thinks what he sees while tripping is the real world, and that what the rest of us see is just an illusion. Basically, he thinks we're living in the Matrix—that we're all stupid and blind. It frustrates him that nobody believes him.

Sorry for the long post.

granitepuma26 said:Hey everyone.

Don't blame me—I don't have the bandwidth to slog through all 230 pages.

I’ve been noticing symptoms similar to schizophrenia in a friend (if you can even call him that anymore).
I'm guessing most of you agree that the best move is just to run for the hills. At first, I was actually scared to ignore him—he genuinely unnerved me.
I tried playing along—pretending everything he said was true, acting like he actually had superpowers or some kind of 4D insight. But it wasn't enough for him, and I couldn't keep up the act forever.
More than the actual stories, though, his attitude was the problem. He acts "arrogant and haughty. He feels superior, omnipotent, all-knowing, called to give advice, invincible, immune, and 'above the law.'" (I pulled that quote from a site about Narcissistic Personality Disorder).

Anyway, I've distanced myself, and he's stopped pestering me—he's pulling away from everyone now. In his mind, everyone else is beneath him and unworthy of his company, so there's no point in talking to us. He thinks we just don't "get" him and think he's crazy, when really, we're the ones living in a delusion.

My question is: what do I do if he keeps reaching out? Do I sit there and endure the nonsense, or just ghost him entirely?
Also, how do people like this actually seek help? There's zero chance he realizes he's sick or would ever agree to see a psychiatrist, yet I know people with schizophrenia do get treatment. How does that process even start?

And what's your take on all this? To add to the list, he shows these traits: total indifference (he doesn't care about anyone, even regarding death); he constantly perceives changes in himself, others, or nature; he claims his vision has changed; he believes he has an intense sixth sense; he makes prophetic claims about world shifts; he's convinced people are jealous of him; he belittles everything; talks about "energy"; considers himself "chosen"—he even claimed to be God once.
He refuses to work. He looks down on labor and other people's achievements.
He's rarely depressed. Most of the time, he's smiling.

He’s used hallucinogens and weed. After using psychedelics, he had experiences that convinced him he has special powers. He thinks what he sees while tripping is the real world, and that what the rest of us see is just an illusion. Basically, he thinks we're living in the Matrix—that we're all stupid and blind. It frustrates him that nobody believes him.

Sorry for the long post.

It truly feels as though we are left with no choice but to wait until a tragedy occurs, either for the individual or those around them. Since they will refuse to see a psychiatrist, and under our laws, you cannot forcibly hospitalize someone unless they pose an immediate danger to themselves or others, what else is there to do?

granitepuma26 said:Hey everyone.

Don't blame me—I don't have the bandwidth to slog through all 230 pages.

I’ve been noticing symptoms similar to schizophrenia in a friend (if you can even call him that anymore).
I'm guessing most of you agree that the best move is just to run for the hills. At first, I was actually scared to ignore him—he genuinely unnerved me.
I tried playing along—pretending everything he said was true, acting like he actually had superpowers or some kind of 4D insight. But it wasn't enough for him, and I couldn't keep up the act forever.
More than the actual stories, though, his attitude was the problem. He acts "arrogant and haughty. He feels superior, omnipotent, all-knowing, called to give advice, invincible, immune, and 'above the law.'" (I pulled that quote from a site about Narcissistic Personality Disorder).

Anyway, I've distanced myself, and he's stopped pestering me—he's pulling away from everyone now. In his mind, everyone else is beneath him and unworthy of his company, so there's no point in talking to us. He thinks we just don't "get" him and think he's crazy, when really, we're the ones living in a delusion.

My question is: what do I do if he keeps reaching out? Do I sit there and endure the nonsense, or just ghost him entirely?
Also, how do people like this actually seek help? There's zero chance he realizes he's sick or would ever agree to see a psychiatrist, yet I know people with schizophrenia do get treatment. How does that process even start?

And what's your take on all this? To add to the list, he shows these traits: total indifference (he doesn't care about anyone, even regarding death); he constantly perceives changes in himself, others, or nature; he claims his vision has changed; he believes he has an intense sixth sense; he makes prophetic claims about world shifts; he's convinced people are jealous of him; he belittles everything; talks about "energy"; considers himself "chosen"—he even claimed to be God once.
He refuses to work. He looks down on labor and other people's achievements.
He's rarely depressed. Most of the time, he's smiling.

He’s used hallucinogens and weed. After using psychedelics, he had experiences that convinced him he has special powers. He thinks what he sees while tripping is the real world, and that what the rest of us see is just an illusion. Basically, he thinks we're living in the Matrix—that we're all stupid and blind. It frustrates him that nobody believes him.

Sorry for the long post.

Honestly, anyone who agrees with that doesn't deserve to have friends. None at all. 🤷

My question is, what should I do if he keeps reaching out? Should I just endure these stories or ignore him entirely (just not respond)?

Just see how much you can handle. You could, of course, avoid him and ignore the messages—especially if his symptoms are making you uncomfortable—or you could try to help. Well, a friend in need... you know the rest.

And I’m wondering how people like this actually seek help. There's no way he realizes he's sick or would ever agree to see a psychiatrist, yet I know people with schizophrenia do get treatment. How does that process even happen?

Most often, it happens through involuntary hospitalization once they start doing things that put themselves or the people around them at risk.

So, based on everything I’ve written, what’s your impression?

It really seems like he’s lost touch with reality and is showing genuine psychotic symptoms. Beyond that, trying to diagnose anything over the internet without a clinical exam or psychological testing is difficult and honestly pretty counterproductive.

Does he have parents or any other family members you could talk to? Maybe you could work together to try and convince him to go for a psychiatric evaluation.

granitepuma26 said:Hey everyone.

Don't blame me—I don't have the bandwidth to slog through all 230 pages.

I’ve been noticing symptoms similar to schizophrenia in a friend (if you can even call him that anymore).
I'm guessing most of you agree that the best move is just to run for the hills. At first, I was actually scared to ignore him—he genuinely unnerved me.
I tried playing along—pretending everything he said was true, acting like he actually had superpowers or some kind of 4D insight. But it wasn't enough for him, and I couldn't keep up the act forever.
More than the actual stories, though, his attitude was the problem. He acts "arrogant and haughty. He feels superior, omnipotent, all-knowing, called to give advice, invincible, immune, and 'above the law.'" (I pulled that quote from a site about Narcissistic Personality Disorder).

Anyway, I've distanced myself, and he's stopped pestering me—he's pulling away from everyone now. In his mind, everyone else is beneath him and unworthy of his company, so there's no point in talking to us. He thinks we just don't "get" him and think he's crazy, when really, we're the ones living in a delusion.

My question is: what do I do if he keeps reaching out? Do I sit there and endure the nonsense, or just ghost him entirely?
Also, how do people like this actually seek help? There's zero chance he realizes he's sick or would ever agree to see a psychiatrist, yet I know people with schizophrenia do get treatment. How does that process even start?

And what's your take on all this? To add to the list, he shows these traits: total indifference (he doesn't care about anyone, even regarding death); he constantly perceives changes in himself, others, or nature; he claims his vision has changed; he believes he has an intense sixth sense; he makes prophetic claims about world shifts; he's convinced people are jealous of him; he belittles everything; talks about "energy"; considers himself "chosen"—he even claimed to be God once.
He refuses to work. He looks down on labor and other people's achievements.
He's rarely depressed. Most of the time, he's smiling.

He’s used hallucinogens and weed. After using psychedelics, he had experiences that convinced him he has special powers. He thinks what he sees while tripping is the real world, and that what the rest of us see is just an illusion. Basically, he thinks we're living in the Matrix—that we're all stupid and blind. It frustrates him that nobody believes him.

Sorry for the long post.

Honestly, if he’s in a psychotic state, I’d probably do the exact same thing and read this thread before making a break for it. Telling someone to avoid him feels a bit like saying you should stay away from someone just because they use a wheelchair or follow a specific religion.

Thanks for the input, everyone.

I get that you're all coming for me, but how am I supposed to maintain a friendship that isn't mutual? Constant accusations, insults, swearing, even threats.
I still pick up his calls because—just like you guys—I feel like I should, but it’s totally irrational. I couldn't just cut him off because I feel bad about his illness. I don't want to be like everyone else who just walked away. But this is genuine torture. That's why I'm struggling—do I stick by him or isolate myself just to survive? It doesn't feel like my presence actually helps him anyway.
Everything I say gets twisted; he acts like I'm attacking him, lying, or just being stupid. Real dialogue? Almost never happens.
He even puts me in awkward spots in front of people, trying to intimidate them. He's had run-ins with the law, too.
I tried to make it work—whatever, he's my friend—but it's getting harder every single day.

@Laura Castillo6, your comparisons don't hold water. I wouldn't run from someone with a disability or a Muslim woman, but I'd definitely run from a psychotic killer. And this guy isn't either of those. Or am I supposed to look at a psycho killer and say, "Well, it's not his fault, he's just sick"???

I talked to his parents. There's nothing they can do.

Look, if all of you who have more experience with this think staying is the right move, fine. That's why I asked. But this is the first opinion I've heard like this—everyone else tells me to get out before I end up in trouble or just wasting my life and energy. They tell me it shouldn't be my burden since he isn't alone and has parents. Honestly, I'm dealing with similar issues with a family member, so this hits extra close to home.

So, give me some actual advice: how should I carry myself? How can my company actually be useful to him? How do I act when he attacks me or mocks me... How am I supposed to force myself to validate everything he says, even when he's saying horrific things? And how do I handle it when he demands I defend him to others, or wants me to tell people he's a god?

Thanks

When we talk about someone being psychotic, we aren't talking about some horror movie slasher; we’re talking about a person whose perception of reality has just shifted. There is a massive difference between psychosis and psychopathy. Just because someone carries a diagnosis of psychopathy doesn't mean they’re out there hunting people down—it really just means their brain lacks that empathy center. I actually think comparing a psychotic individual to someone using a wheelchair is a pretty fair analogy, because at the end of the day, both situations require support and assistance. And look, psychosis isn't the "cause" of schizophrenia; episodes can happen to anyone on this planet at any time, affecting roughly 3% of the population on average.

Now, I get why you feel like tackling an unknown problem is a way of running away. It makes sense, honestly—most of us are terrified of what we don't understand, and statistically, these episodes aren't common occurrences. But you're forgetting that life is messy, and bad things happen to everyone eventually, regardless of how rare a specific condition might be. When those moments hit, that's when people need help. If this person becomes a danger to themselves or to you—or if they start making threats about what they might do—then you have to call the authorities. You report it to the police, and they’ll make sure the hospital steps in to get things under control. But if they aren't being aggressive and aren't hurting their parents, then as far as I'm concerned, let them live in their own reality.

granitepuma26 said:Thanks for the input, everyone.

I get that you're all coming for me, but how am I supposed to maintain a friendship that isn't mutual? Constant accusations, insults, swearing, even threats.
I still pick up his calls because—just like you guys—I feel like I should, but it’s totally irrational. I couldn't just cut him off because I feel bad about his illness. I don't want to be like everyone else who just walked away. But this is genuine torture. That's why I'm struggling—do I stick by him or isolate myself just to survive? It doesn't feel like my presence actually helps him anyway.
Everything I say gets twisted; he acts like I'm attacking him, lying, or just being stupid. Real dialogue? Almost never happens.
He even puts me in awkward spots in front of people, trying to intimidate them. He's had run-ins with the law, too.
I tried to make it work—whatever, he's my friend—but it's getting harder every single day.

@Laura Castillo6, your comparisons don't hold water. I wouldn't run from someone with a disability or a Muslim woman, but I'd definitely run from a psychotic killer. And this guy isn't either of those. Or am I supposed to look at a psycho killer and say, "Well, it's not his fault, he's just sick"???

I talked to his parents. There's nothing they can do.

Look, if all of you who have more experience with this think staying is the right move, fine. That's why I asked. But this is the first opinion I've heard like this—everyone else tells me to get out before I end up in trouble or just wasting my life and energy. They tell me it shouldn't be my burden since he isn't alone and has parents. Honestly, I'm dealing with similar issues with a family member, so this hits extra close to home.

So, give me some actual advice: how should I carry myself? How can my company actually be useful to him? How do I act when he attacks me or mocks me... How am I supposed to force myself to validate everything he says, even when he's saying horrific things? And how do I handle it when he demands I defend him to others, or wants me to tell people he's a god?

We accused you for good reason. If he is behaving exactly as you described, then he has clearly lost his grip on reality. Once someone loses touch with what is real, getting them to accept treatment becomes an uphill battle requiring immense persuasion. Can you not simply realize that this isn't him anymore? It isn't his true self; it is merely his illness.

granitepuma26 said:Thanks for the input, everyone.

I get that you're all coming for me, but how am I supposed to maintain a friendship that isn't mutual? Constant accusations, insults, swearing, even threats.
I still pick up his calls because—just like you guys—I feel like I should, but it’s totally irrational. I couldn't just cut him off because I feel bad about his illness. I don't want to be like everyone else who just walked away. But this is genuine torture. That's why I'm struggling—do I stick by him or isolate myself just to survive? It doesn't feel like my presence actually helps him anyway.
Everything I say gets twisted; he acts like I'm attacking him, lying, or just being stupid. Real dialogue? Almost never happens.
He even puts me in awkward spots in front of people, trying to intimidate them. He's had run-ins with the law, too.
I tried to make it work—whatever, he's my friend—but it's getting harder every single day.

@Laura Castillo6, your comparisons don't hold water. I wouldn't run from someone with a disability or a Muslim woman, but I'd definitely run from a psychotic killer. And this guy isn't either of those. Or am I supposed to look at a psycho killer and say, "Well, it's not his fault, he's just sick"???

I talked to his parents. There's nothing they can do.

Look, if all of you who have more experience with this think staying is the right move, fine. That's why I asked. But this is the first opinion I've heard like this—everyone else tells me to get out before I end up in trouble or just wasting my life and energy. They tell me it shouldn't be my burden since he isn't alone and has parents. Honestly, I'm dealing with similar issues with a family member, so this hits extra close to home.

So, give me some actual advice: how should I carry myself? How can my company actually be useful to him? How do I act when he attacks me or mocks me... How am I supposed to force myself to validate everything he says, even when he's saying horrific things? And how do I handle it when he demands I defend him to others, or wants me to tell people he's a god?

If this is an ordeal for you, can you even fathom the agony he is enduring? It is no different than saying, "I should run away from someone battling cancer because watching them suffer is just too difficult for me."

But in this situation, who is truly suffering more? Is it the one enduring the actual pain, or the one who is "merely" forced to witness it? Really now...

granitepuma26 said:Thanks for the input, everyone.

I get that you're all coming for me, but how am I supposed to maintain a friendship that isn't mutual? Constant accusations, insults, swearing, even threats.
I still pick up his calls because—just like you guys—I feel like I should, but it’s totally irrational. I couldn't just cut him off because I feel bad about his illness. I don't want to be like everyone else who just walked away. But this is genuine torture. That's why I'm struggling—do I stick by him or isolate myself just to survive? It doesn't feel like my presence actually helps him anyway.
Everything I say gets twisted; he acts like I'm attacking him, lying, or just being stupid. Real dialogue? Almost never happens.
He even puts me in awkward spots in front of people, trying to intimidate them. He's had run-ins with the law, too.
I tried to make it work—whatever, he's my friend—but it's getting harder every single day.

@Laura Castillo6, your comparisons don't hold water. I wouldn't run from someone with a disability or a Muslim woman, but I'd definitely run from a psychotic killer. And this guy isn't either of those. Or am I supposed to look at a psycho killer and say, "Well, it's not his fault, he's just sick"???

I talked to his parents. There's nothing they can do.

Look, if all of you who have more experience with this think staying is the right move, fine. That's why I asked. But this is the first opinion I've heard like this—everyone else tells me to get out before I end up in trouble or just wasting my life and energy. They tell me it shouldn't be my burden since he isn't alone and has parents. Honestly, I'm dealing with similar issues with a family member, so this hits extra close to home.

So, give me some actual advice: how should I carry myself? How can my company actually be useful to him? How do I act when he attacks me or mocks me... How am I supposed to force myself to validate everything he says, even when he's saying horrific things? And how do I handle it when he demands I defend him to others, or wants me to tell people he's a god?

Why is it so incredibly difficult to grasp that the man is psychotic—that he is mentally ill—and that these actions are driven by his sickness rather than HIM???

granitepuma26 said:Thanks for the input, everyone.

I get that you're all coming for me, but how am I supposed to maintain a friendship that isn't mutual? Constant accusations, insults, swearing, even threats.
I still pick up his calls because—just like you guys—I feel like I should, but it’s totally irrational. I couldn't just cut him off because I feel bad about his illness. I don't want to be like everyone else who just walked away. But this is genuine torture. That's why I'm struggling—do I stick by him or isolate myself just to survive? It doesn't feel like my presence actually helps him anyway.
Everything I say gets twisted; he acts like I'm attacking him, lying, or just being stupid. Real dialogue? Almost never happens.
He even puts me in awkward spots in front of people, trying to intimidate them. He's had run-ins with the law, too.
I tried to make it work—whatever, he's my friend—but it's getting harder every single day.

@Laura Castillo6, your comparisons don't hold water. I wouldn't run from someone with a disability or a Muslim woman, but I'd definitely run from a psychotic killer. And this guy isn't either of those. Or am I supposed to look at a psycho killer and say, "Well, it's not his fault, he's just sick"???

I talked to his parents. There's nothing they can do.

Look, if all of you who have more experience with this think staying is the right move, fine. That's why I asked. But this is the first opinion I've heard like this—everyone else tells me to get out before I end up in trouble or just wasting my life and energy. They tell me it shouldn't be my burden since he isn't alone and has parents. Honestly, I'm dealing with similar issues with a family member, so this hits extra close to home.

So, give me some actual advice: how should I carry myself? How can my company actually be useful to him? How do I act when he attacks me or mocks me... How am I supposed to force myself to validate everything he says, even when he's saying horrific things? And how do I handle it when he demands I defend him to others, or wants me to tell people he's a god?

Everything he does to you is not intentional; he does it because of his condition.

granitepuma26 said:Thanks for the input, everyone.

I get that you're all coming for me, but how am I supposed to maintain a friendship that isn't mutual? Constant accusations, insults, swearing, even threats.
I still pick up his calls because—just like you guys—I feel like I should, but it’s totally irrational. I couldn't just cut him off because I feel bad about his illness. I don't want to be like everyone else who just walked away. But this is genuine torture. That's why I'm struggling—do I stick by him or isolate myself just to survive? It doesn't feel like my presence actually helps him anyway.
Everything I say gets twisted; he acts like I'm attacking him, lying, or just being stupid. Real dialogue? Almost never happens.
He even puts me in awkward spots in front of people, trying to intimidate them. He's had run-ins with the law, too.
I tried to make it work—whatever, he's my friend—but it's getting harder every single day.

@Laura Castillo6, your comparisons don't hold water. I wouldn't run from someone with a disability or a Muslim woman, but I'd definitely run from a psychotic killer. And this guy isn't either of those. Or am I supposed to look at a psycho killer and say, "Well, it's not his fault, he's just sick"???

I talked to his parents. There's nothing they can do.

Look, if all of you who have more experience with this think staying is the right move, fine. That's why I asked. But this is the first opinion I've heard like this—everyone else tells me to get out before I end up in trouble or just wasting my life and energy. They tell me it shouldn't be my burden since he isn't alone and has parents. Honestly, I'm dealing with similar issues with a family member, so this hits extra close to home.

So, give me some actual advice: how should I carry myself? How can my company actually be useful to him? How do I act when he attacks me or mocks me... How am I supposed to force myself to validate everything he says, even when he's saying horrific things? And how do I handle it when he demands I defend him to others, or wants me to tell people he's a god?

Is that friend of yours truly a dangerous individual?

granitepuma26 said:Thanks for the input, everyone.

I get that you're all coming for me, but how am I supposed to maintain a friendship that isn't mutual? Constant accusations, insults, swearing, even threats.
I still pick up his calls because—just like you guys—I feel like I should, but it’s totally irrational. I couldn't just cut him off because I feel bad about his illness. I don't want to be like everyone else who just walked away. But this is genuine torture. That's why I'm struggling—do I stick by him or isolate myself just to survive? It doesn't feel like my presence actually helps him anyway.
Everything I say gets twisted; he acts like I'm attacking him, lying, or just being stupid. Real dialogue? Almost never happens.
He even puts me in awkward spots in front of people, trying to intimidate them. He's had run-ins with the law, too.
I tried to make it work—whatever, he's my friend—but it's getting harder every single day.

@Laura Castillo6, your comparisons don't hold water. I wouldn't run from someone with a disability or a Muslim woman, but I'd definitely run from a psychotic killer. And this guy isn't either of those. Or am I supposed to look at a psycho killer and say, "Well, it's not his fault, he's just sick"???

I talked to his parents. There's nothing they can do.

Look, if all of you who have more experience with this think staying is the right move, fine. That's why I asked. But this is the first opinion I've heard like this—everyone else tells me to get out before I end up in trouble or just wasting my life and energy. They tell me it shouldn't be my burden since he isn't alone and has parents. Honestly, I'm dealing with similar issues with a family member, so this hits extra close to home.

So, give me some actual advice: how should I carry myself? How can my company actually be useful to him? How do I act when he attacks me or mocks me... How am I supposed to force myself to validate everything he says, even when he's saying horrific things? And how do I handle it when he demands I defend him to others, or wants me to tell people he's a god?

If anyone possesses the capacity to offer him support, then it must be those individuals who stand by his side alongside his true companions. Can we truly hope that you are a genuine friend, rather than merely someone who offers fair-weather loyalty when things are easy?

granitepuma26 said:Thanks for the input, everyone.

I get that you're all coming for me, but how am I supposed to maintain a friendship that isn't mutual? Constant accusations, insults, swearing, even threats.
I still pick up his calls because—just like you guys—I feel like I should, but it’s totally irrational. I couldn't just cut him off because I feel bad about his illness. I don't want to be like everyone else who just walked away. But this is genuine torture. That's why I'm struggling—do I stick by him or isolate myself just to survive? It doesn't feel like my presence actually helps him anyway.
Everything I say gets twisted; he acts like I'm attacking him, lying, or just being stupid. Real dialogue? Almost never happens.
He even puts me in awkward spots in front of people, trying to intimidate them. He's had run-ins with the law, too.
I tried to make it work—whatever, he's my friend—but it's getting harder every single day.

@Laura Castillo6, your comparisons don't hold water. I wouldn't run from someone with a disability or a Muslim woman, but I'd definitely run from a psychotic killer. And this guy isn't either of those. Or am I supposed to look at a psycho killer and say, "Well, it's not his fault, he's just sick"???

I talked to his parents. There's nothing they can do.

Look, if all of you who have more experience with this think staying is the right move, fine. That's why I asked. But this is the first opinion I've heard like this—everyone else tells me to get out before I end up in trouble or just wasting my life and energy. They tell me it shouldn't be my burden since he isn't alone and has parents. Honestly, I'm dealing with similar issues with a family member, so this hits extra close to home.

So, give me some actual advice: how should I carry myself? How can my company actually be useful to him? How do I act when he attacks me or mocks me... How am I supposed to force myself to validate everything he says, even when he's saying horrific things? And how do I handle it when he demands I defend him to others, or wants me to tell people he's a god?

Perhaps you should direct your attention toward that family member instead, for surely they are a far more significant figure in your life? Yet, I implore you, do not let this individual be overlooked as well.

granitepuma26 said:Thanks for the input, everyone.

I get that you're all coming for me, but how am I supposed to maintain a friendship that isn't mutual? Constant accusations, insults, swearing, even threats.
I still pick up his calls because—just like you guys—I feel like I should, but it’s totally irrational. I couldn't just cut him off because I feel bad about his illness. I don't want to be like everyone else who just walked away. But this is genuine torture. That's why I'm struggling—do I stick by him or isolate myself just to survive? It doesn't feel like my presence actually helps him anyway.
Everything I say gets twisted; he acts like I'm attacking him, lying, or just being stupid. Real dialogue? Almost never happens.
He even puts me in awkward spots in front of people, trying to intimidate them. He's had run-ins with the law, too.
I tried to make it work—whatever, he's my friend—but it's getting harder every single day.

@Laura Castillo6, your comparisons don't hold water. I wouldn't run from someone with a disability or a Muslim woman, but I'd definitely run from a psychotic killer. And this guy isn't either of those. Or am I supposed to look at a psycho killer and say, "Well, it's not his fault, he's just sick"???

I talked to his parents. There's nothing they can do.

Look, if all of you who have more experience with this think staying is the right move, fine. That's why I asked. But this is the first opinion I've heard like this—everyone else tells me to get out before I end up in trouble or just wasting my life and energy. They tell me it shouldn't be my burden since he isn't alone and has parents. Honestly, I'm dealing with similar issues with a family member, so this hits extra close to home.

So, give me some actual advice: how should I carry myself? How can my company actually be useful to him? How do I act when he attacks me or mocks me... How am I supposed to force myself to validate everything he says, even when he's saying horrific things? And how do I handle it when he demands I defend him to others, or wants me to tell people he's a god?

Is there any greater gift an ordinary person can offer to someone facing illness than the simple, profound act of presence? Truly, for those of us without medical training, staying by a loved one's side from the very beginning until the very end is the most significant and meaningful service we can possibly provide.

granitepuma26 said:Thanks for the input, everyone.

I get that you're all coming for me, but how am I supposed to maintain a friendship that isn't mutual? Constant accusations, insults, swearing, even threats.
I still pick up his calls because—just like you guys—I feel like I should, but it’s totally irrational. I couldn't just cut him off because I feel bad about his illness. I don't want to be like everyone else who just walked away. But this is genuine torture. That's why I'm struggling—do I stick by him or isolate myself just to survive? It doesn't feel like my presence actually helps him anyway.
Everything I say gets twisted; he acts like I'm attacking him, lying, or just being stupid. Real dialogue? Almost never happens.
He even puts me in awkward spots in front of people, trying to intimidate them. He's had run-ins with the law, too.
I tried to make it work—whatever, he's my friend—but it's getting harder every single day.

@Laura Castillo6, your comparisons don't hold water. I wouldn't run from someone with a disability or a Muslim woman, but I'd definitely run from a psychotic killer. And this guy isn't either of those. Or am I supposed to look at a psycho killer and say, "Well, it's not his fault, he's just sick"???

I talked to his parents. There's nothing they can do.

Look, if all of you who have more experience with this think staying is the right move, fine. That's why I asked. But this is the first opinion I've heard like this—everyone else tells me to get out before I end up in trouble or just wasting my life and energy. They tell me it shouldn't be my burden since he isn't alone and has parents. Honestly, I'm dealing with similar issues with a family member, so this hits extra close to home.

So, give me some actual advice: how should I carry myself? How can my company actually be useful to him? How do I act when he attacks me or mocks me... How am I supposed to force myself to validate everything he says, even when he's saying horrific things? And how do I handle it when he demands I defend him to others, or wants me to tell people he's a god?

Don't just go along with everything he says.

granitepuma26 said:Thanks for the input, everyone.

I get that you're all coming for me, but how am I supposed to maintain a friendship that isn't mutual? Constant accusations, insults, swearing, even threats.
I still pick up his calls because—just like you guys—I feel like I should, but it’s totally irrational. I couldn't just cut him off because I feel bad about his illness. I don't want to be like everyone else who just walked away. But this is genuine torture. That's why I'm struggling—do I stick by him or isolate myself just to survive? It doesn't feel like my presence actually helps him anyway.
Everything I say gets twisted; he acts like I'm attacking him, lying, or just being stupid. Real dialogue? Almost never happens.
He even puts me in awkward spots in front of people, trying to intimidate them. He's had run-ins with the law, too.
I tried to make it work—whatever, he's my friend—but it's getting harder every single day.

@Laura Castillo6, your comparisons don't hold water. I wouldn't run from someone with a disability or a Muslim woman, but I'd definitely run from a psychotic killer. And this guy isn't either of those. Or am I supposed to look at a psycho killer and say, "Well, it's not his fault, he's just sick"???

I talked to his parents. There's nothing they can do.

Look, if all of you who have more experience with this think staying is the right move, fine. That's why I asked. But this is the first opinion I've heard like this—everyone else tells me to get out before I end up in trouble or just wasting my life and energy. They tell me it shouldn't be my burden since he isn't alone and has parents. Honestly, I'm dealing with similar issues with a family member, so this hits extra close to home.

So, give me some actual advice: how should I carry myself? How can my company actually be useful to him? How do I act when he attacks me or mocks me... How am I supposed to force myself to validate everything he says, even when he's saying horrific things? And how do I handle it when he demands I defend him to others, or wants me to tell people he's a god?

Explain to him that while we all hold different perspectives on how the world operates, any attempt to force his views through violence will be utterly futile, and he should fully expect to face consequences should he resort to such aggressive tactics.

Laura Castillo6 said:When we talk about someone being psychotic, we aren't talking about some horror movie slasher; we’re talking about a person whose perception of reality has just shifted. There is a massive difference between psychosis and psychopathy. Just because someone carries a diagnosis of psychopathy doesn't mean they’re out there hunting people down—it really just means their brain lacks that empathy center. I actually think comparing a psychotic individual to someone using a wheelchair is a pretty fair analogy, because at the end of the day, both situations require support and assistance. And look, psychosis isn't the "cause" of schizophrenia; episodes can happen to anyone on this planet at any time, affecting roughly 3% of the population on average.

Now, I get why you feel like tackling an unknown problem is a way of running away. It makes sense, honestly—most of us are terrified of what we don't understand, and statistically, these episodes aren't common occurrences. But you're forgetting that life is messy, and bad things happen to everyone eventually, regardless of how rare a specific condition might be. When those moments hit, that's when people need help. If this person becomes a danger to themselves or to you—or if they start making threats about what they might do—then you have to call the authorities. You report it to the police, and they’ll make sure the hospital steps in to get things under control. But if they aren't being aggressive and aren't hurting their parents, then as far as I'm concerned, let them live in their own reality.

I never said a psychotic person is automatically a killer, nor that every psychopath is a murderer. My point was that a murderous psychopath is still sick, even if it's not the same as having cancer. I was also addressing what Nicole Barrett76 wrote. If you guys think they're the same thing, fine by me.

And I didn't say running away would solve his issues either.

I was just explaining that none of my attempts to help have actually worked.

It’s not that the parents don't care—it’s that he thinks he doesn't need any help, so he rejects everything, whether it's mine or theirs. If we even gently suggest that we don't believe what he's saying, he has a massive meltdown and bolts. All he wants from them is cash, which he burns through instantly instead of saving for anything meaningful. In his head, he won't even need money once he finally achieves his "power."

If I didn't give a damn about him or the fact that he keeps fleeing, I wouldn't be posting here...
I'm just looking for a way forward, if one even exists. And if it doesn't, then I have to protect myself. I feel selfish for thinking that—and it eats at me—but it seems like everyone else calls it common sense.

Nicole Barrett76 said:We accused you for good reason. If he is behaving exactly as you described, then he has clearly lost his grip on reality. Once someone loses touch with what is real, getting them to accept treatment becomes an uphill battle requiring immense persuasion. Can you not simply realize that this isn't him anymore? It isn't his true self; it is merely his illness.

If this is an ordeal for you, can you even fathom the agony he is enduring? It is no different than saying, "I should run away from someone battling cancer because watching them suffer is just too difficult for me."

But in this situation, who is truly suffering more? Is it the one enduring the actual pain, or the one who is "merely" forced to witness it? Really now...

Why is it so incredibly difficult to grasp that the man is psychotic—that he is mentally ill—and that these actions are driven by his sickness rather than HIM???

Everything he does to you is not intentional; he does it because of his condition.

Is that friend of yours truly a dangerous individual?

If anyone possesses the capacity to offer him support, then it must be those individuals who stand by his side alongside his true companions. Can we truly hope that you are a genuine friend, rather than merely someone who offers fair-weather loyalty when things are easy?

Perhaps you should direct your attention toward that family member instead, for surely they are a far more significant figure in your life? Yet, I implore you, do not let this individual be overlooked as well.

Is there any greater gift an ordinary person can offer to someone facing illness than the simple, profound act of presence? Truly, for those of us without medical training, staying by a loved one's side from the very beginning until the very end is the most significant and meaningful service we can possibly provide.

Don't just go along with everything he says.

Explain to him that while we all hold different perspectives on how the world operates, any attempt to force his views through violence will be utterly futile, and he should fully expect to face consequences should he resort to such aggressive tactics.

He’s clearly frustrated—but he’d be the last person to ever admit he's struggling. He always has some rationalization for everything, acting like everything is exactly how it ought to be. You’d never guess he was hurting. Honestly, he doesn't even realize something is wrong with him.
He gets exactly what he wants—does whatever he pleases—and even when he screws up, he just shrugs it off, makes an excuse, and calls it a day. Meanwhile, everyone else is left cleaning up his mess.
Look—maybe I didn't make it clear enough—but I’m talking about someone who actually shows symptoms of NPD.
The only way to deal with him is to just suck up to him and fall in line—that’s his whole vibe. He gets moody when things don't go his way, but he'll never admit he's actually hurting. Honestly? He's just indifferent. He couldn't care less about anything.

Nicole Barrett76 said:We accused you for good reason. If he is behaving exactly as you described, then he has clearly lost his grip on reality. Once someone loses touch with what is real, getting them to accept treatment becomes an uphill battle requiring immense persuasion. Can you not simply realize that this isn't him anymore? It isn't his true self; it is merely his illness.

If this is an ordeal for you, can you even fathom the agony he is enduring? It is no different than saying, "I should run away from someone battling cancer because watching them suffer is just too difficult for me."

But in this situation, who is truly suffering more? Is it the one enduring the actual pain, or the one who is "merely" forced to witness it? Really now...

Why is it so incredibly difficult to grasp that the man is psychotic—that he is mentally ill—and that these actions are driven by his sickness rather than HIM???

Everything he does to you is not intentional; he does it because of his condition.

Is that friend of yours truly a dangerous individual?

If anyone possesses the capacity to offer him support, then it must be those individuals who stand by his side alongside his true companions. Can we truly hope that you are a genuine friend, rather than merely someone who offers fair-weather loyalty when things are easy?

Perhaps you should direct your attention toward that family member instead, for surely they are a far more significant figure in your life? Yet, I implore you, do not let this individual be overlooked as well.

Is there any greater gift an ordinary person can offer to someone facing illness than the simple, profound act of presence? Truly, for those of us without medical training, staying by a loved one's side from the very beginning until the very end is the most significant and meaningful service we can possibly provide.

Don't just go along with everything he says.

Explain to him that while we all hold different perspectives on how the world operates, any attempt to force his views through violence will be utterly futile, and he should fully expect to face consequences should he resort to such aggressive tactics.

I see exactly what's going on here—which is why I’m not even mad at him. Honestly, that's the reason I'm still standing by his side—and it hasn't been for just a little while, either.

Nicole Barrett76 said:We accused you for good reason. If he is behaving exactly as you described, then he has clearly lost his grip on reality. Once someone loses touch with what is real, getting them to accept treatment becomes an uphill battle requiring immense persuasion. Can you not simply realize that this isn't him anymore? It isn't his true self; it is merely his illness.

If this is an ordeal for you, can you even fathom the agony he is enduring? It is no different than saying, "I should run away from someone battling cancer because watching them suffer is just too difficult for me."

But in this situation, who is truly suffering more? Is it the one enduring the actual pain, or the one who is "merely" forced to witness it? Really now...

Why is it so incredibly difficult to grasp that the man is psychotic—that he is mentally ill—and that these actions are driven by his sickness rather than HIM???

Everything he does to you is not intentional; he does it because of his condition.

Is that friend of yours truly a dangerous individual?

If anyone possesses the capacity to offer him support, then it must be those individuals who stand by his side alongside his true companions. Can we truly hope that you are a genuine friend, rather than merely someone who offers fair-weather loyalty when things are easy?

Perhaps you should direct your attention toward that family member instead, for surely they are a far more significant figure in your life? Yet, I implore you, do not let this individual be overlooked as well.

Is there any greater gift an ordinary person can offer to someone facing illness than the simple, profound act of presence? Truly, for those of us without medical training, staying by a loved one's side from the very beginning until the very end is the most significant and meaningful service we can possibly provide.

Don't just go along with everything he says.

Explain to him that while we all hold different perspectives on how the world operates, any attempt to force his views through violence will be utterly futile, and he should fully expect to face consequences should he resort to such aggressive tactics.

Thanks for saying that.

He had friends who actually stuck by him through the rough patches—people who weren't just there for the wins—but he pushed them away anyway. Either he’d pin some random blame on them for things they didn't even do, or he just acted incredibly arrogant and entitled—basically deciding they weren't "on his level" and must be jealous, so why bother? In his own mind, he doesn't need anyone.

So yeah, those people eventually just walked away.

btw All that advice you're giving me on what to say to him? He'd just laugh in my face.

I’ve gotta say, something about this whole situation feels a little off to me. Are you some kind of psychiatrist or something? Because you’ve gone ahead and slapped two different diagnoses on him already. The part that’s really tripping me up is how well he seems to be functioning, considering he's dealing with psychotic symptoms. And honestly, the way he talks so openly about his delusions is pretty unusual. In my experience—and I was reading a fascinating article about this the other day—delusions usually stay locked inside someone's head; people rarely just sit around chatting about them like they're discussing the weather. Without an actual evaluation from a solid professional, it's hard to know what's really going on. You can't truly tell until he either hits a breaking point or realizes for himself that things aren't quite right. Then again, who am I to judge? Maybe he isn't losing touch with reality at all. Maybe he’s just become deeply religious... honestly, who knows? It's a lot more complicated than it looks on the surface.

Laura Castillo6 said:I’ve gotta say, something about this whole situation feels a little off to me. Are you some kind of psychiatrist or something? Because you’ve gone ahead and slapped two different diagnoses on him already. The part that’s really tripping me up is how well he seems to be functioning, considering he's dealing with psychotic symptoms. And honestly, the way he talks so openly about his delusions is pretty unusual. In my experience—and I was reading a fascinating article about this the other day—delusions usually stay locked inside someone's head; people rarely just sit around chatting about them like they're discussing the weather. Without an actual evaluation from a solid professional, it's hard to know what's really going on. You can't truly tell until he either hits a breaking point or realizes for himself that things aren't quite right. Then again, who am I to judge? Maybe he isn't losing touch with reality at all. Maybe he’s just become deeply religious... honestly, who knows? It's a lot more complicated than it looks on the surface.

I don't know his diagnosis—if only I did. I can only point out the symptoms and what they seem to suggest. Who knows what the whole thing actually is. I get why it looks messy; I'm just throwing things out there without much structure.

He doesn't tell everyone—he talks to me, tells his parents a little bit, and opened up to a friend or two who he thought shared his views.

At first, I honestly thought he hadn't lost touch—that he'd just become religious—but eventually, it just became too hard to believe. Plus, there are constant contradictions and these baseless accusations.

The whole thing with numerology—and using his own personal system for it—feels more like superstition than religion to me. I can handle a friend being into that stuff, but when every license plate and house number starts "sending messages" and he spends hours obsessing over a single digit, that's not faith—that's a disorder.

I feel like I’m being haunted by numbers... specifically certain ones. It’s honestly deeply unsettling, and I’ve reached a point where I don't even know what to believe anymore. To be perfectly blunt, I am terrified. 😢 And that isn't even the full extent of it... I struggle with depression, but now I’m paralyzed by the fear that this might actually be schizophrenia.