NAMI OC Knowledge Forum - Ask An Expert: Understanding Schizophrenia & Psychosis

Learn more with Mary Palafox, a Registered Nurse and Chair of Schizophrenia and Psychosis Action Alliance as she discusses signs and symptoms of schizophrenia and psychosis, basic differences in healthcare delivery between mental and physical health, what to do when your loved one is in a psychosis crisis, and what resources that are available in Orange County.
The mission of NAMI Orange County is to provide support, education, and advocacy for families and those affected by mental illness.

[@kristina4272]

You have the best warm line in the country in Orange County.

[@claudiaabramo2375]

So smart! He learned so much! You’re amazing

[@kimlec3592]

Psychiatry harms. Except in Finland, where they do not pathologize nor over medicate. The approach is known as Open Dialogue. It is relational.

[@tarottime3219]

I couldn’t get help for my 35 year old, they have to be hurting themselves or someone. My son locked his bedroom door and shot him self dead, I was to late, I called the cops first they couldn’t get him to open his door even through telling him they we’re doing a wellness check , I heard a thump, it sounded like my son dropped something but that was a silencer we didn’t know about a gun., cops left, I called a locksmith to open his door. My son was not diagnosed at the time, video’s helped me to see what was going on. It’s awful!

[@DRAGONFLYmanor]

Sending love! Right there with you!

[@hope4all366]

I'm so very sorry. We need help prior to them being suicidal and/or homicidal. How can we allow our loved ones to operate when they are out of reality?

[@DeniseAquino-x2s]

I feel pain on my right side of my head. Not sure why its happening.

[@DeniseAquino-x2s]

I don't take methadone. I have a lot of stress from arguments when I am being called the "n" word from him

[@DeniseAquino-x2s]

I have been having some of these symptoms for a few weeks now and it seems as if this happens when he and I are not able to understand one another.

[@DeniseAquino-x2s]

What can I do when I ask him to take a break however he doesn't want to do this without keeping me around him.

[@DeniseAquino-x2s]

Thank you for this important information on how to handle this situation to deescalate

[@DeniseAquino-x2s]

Having a routine is good for me. I quit smoking awhile ago. But I live in a home where they smoke. So I have roommates who also rent their rooms in this home we each rent.

[@tguthrie1121]

My son thinks he is ok (18) but he failed his last year of high school. 2 weeks later he was arrested for suspicion of driving under influence of drugs. What should I do as hid mom? I feel helpless.

[@sharonruff3837]

Hi. I've been and am in your situation. My daughter was diagnosed with schizophrenia a few years ago. She's currently on medication and doing better, but it was a long, long battle to get her here and the side effects are awful. She will never be able to support herself, so my worst fear is that she will become homeless when I eventually pass away. What is available for her?

[@lbshopsalot626]

Never give up. Keep asking him how it’s going. One day he might want or ask for help. Jump on the opportunity and take him to ER room. Get professionals involved to get your son diagnosed and treatment/medication he needs.

[@tguthrie1121]

How long does a psychosis last??

[@timothymcisaac7399]

I am a schizophrenic. and I think it's an eternity of abuse throughout history.

[@martharamos4601]

I need some help to hone how to help my son , but it’s any Spanish groups ? I live en Sanra Fe NM

[@LarryKnight-nd5xw]

Bet1

[@LarryKnight-nd5xw]

Cheyenne's Schizophrenia