“I can understand why you’re upset. If I thought that my neighbors were planning to hurt me, I’d feel a lot of fear too. ” “I know that it must be scary to feel like you can’t trust anyone around you. ”
For example, you might say something like, “Would you like to take a seat? I think we might feel more comfortable if we sit down. ”
“I know that your husband not returning your calls makes you worried. I think that it could be the case that he really has been busy at work and hasn’t been able to reach you—I know I ignore my phone when this happens to me. ” “I can see why all of the houses having their lights off might be unnerving. The way I see it, I feel like most people in the neighborhood decided to get away for the long weekend. ”
“I’m going to open the door now. There’s no need to be alarmed when I come in—I don’t mean to cause you any harm. ” “I’m going to use my phone to call your sister. You can watch me do this if you want to. ”
“I know that your mind must be racing with all kinds of thoughts right now. How about if we clean some dishes together, then come back to this conversation?” “You’re going through a hard time right now. Maybe you would want to spend some time with me in the garden? I saw some weeds out there that need to be pulled. ”
Say something like: “I’m glad you’re feeling calmer. How about if we talk about what happened?” If they falsely accused you of something, you can have an open discussion with them. [12] X Expert Source Hyungbum Kang, MA, MSW, LCSW, MACLicensed Clinical Social Worker Expert Interview. 22 July 2021.
This might be a conversation that you have to revisit a number of times. Be persistent in offering help, but know that it might take time before they agree to seek it out themselves. [14] X Trustworthy Source National Alliance on Mental Illness Grassroots mental health-focused organization providing resources, support, and education for those affected by mental illness Go to source
If someone’s accusations have gone too far and they present a genuine threat to your physical safety, you may have to get emergency services involved. [16] X Trustworthy Source National Alliance on Mental Illness Grassroots mental health-focused organization providing resources, support, and education for those affected by mental illness Go to source If you do call 911, tell the operator that you’re dealing with a psychiatric emergency and need someone trained in crisis intervention. [17] X Trustworthy Source National Alliance on Mental Illness Grassroots mental health-focused organization providing resources, support, and education for those affected by mental illness Go to source
Remember to take care of yourself and spend time away from the orbit of your loved one who experiences paranoia. Eating, sleeping, and exercising well is important to maintain your mental strength. If you feel a lot of stress from dealing with your loved one’s paranoia, this is completely understandable. It might be a good idea to talk to a therapist to process your emotions.
