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Real members of myHIVteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Does Anyone Else Have A Partner Who Suffers From Mental Illness And It Affects Your Health (like The Stress Affects Your CD4 Count)?

A myHIVteam Member asked a question 💭
Nashville, TN

So I've talked a lot about my boyfriend and how amazing he is, and that's very true. But he has a certain mental illness that causes me to worry about him constantly when he is not on his meds. I take my own psych meds every day, but the anxiety and panic and worry I experience when he's symptomatic happens despite my meds, and I really think my physical health is suffering too. My CD4 count was very high, now it's a bit lower and I'm also fatigued, sick to my stomach a lot, and constantly have… read more

October 1, 2023
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A myHIVteam Member

Yes I am most definitely in therapy. I have been for years. He won't go, he doesn't think there is anything wrong with him. I'm aware of my problems and I know how to deal, not that it's easy for me, but I tend to look on the bright side whenever possible and I put in the work. Also I'm bipolar 1, so medication is the main treatment for that and as long as I take it every single day without fail, I'm usually doing well. He has a psychotic disorder, it's different. He doesn't get that the thoughts in his brain aren't based in reality when he stops his meds, which he does about half the time. It's frustrating and heartbreaking, and it's impossible to convince a psychotic person that what they hear or think or whatever isn't real. I'm just not going to win that battle, trust me. I don't even try, I just try to be there for him and focus on how he must be feeling rather than on the fact that there's absolutely no reason for him to be paranoid and whatnot. I know that from the outside looking in, it looks like I'm an idiot and I should focus on my own treatment and walk away from him. I know that very well. But it's easier said than done. I'm in love with him and when he's medicated he's great. No one ever believes he has a mental illness until they actually witness him off his medication. I'm a big believer in therapy, it has saved my life more than once. But trying to convince him to go is a struggle. I'm going to a new therapist next week and I'm going to try one more time to get him to go to someone else in that practice. I hope he will go but I'm not holding my breath.

October 2, 2023
A myHIVteam Member

Seek therapy for both of you...

October 2, 2023
A myHIVteam Member

Helping a mentally ill person who refuses to take their medication can be challenging, but there are several strategies you can try to support them. It's important to approach this situation with empathy, patience, and a focus on their well-being. Here are some steps to consider:

(1) Open Communication: Start by having an open and non-judgmental conversation with the person. Listen to their concerns and reasons for not taking their medication. It's essential to understand their perspective and feelings.

(2) Educate: Provide information about the benefits of the medication and how it can help improve their mental health. Share any potential risks of not taking the medication, such as worsening symptoms or relapse.

(3) Involve a Healthcare Professional: Encourage the person to speak with their mental health care provider. Sometimes, individuals may have misconceptions about their medications or experience side effects that can be managed with adjustments to their treatment plan.

(4) Seek a Second Opinion: If the person is skeptical about their current treatment plan, suggest getting a second opinion from another mental health professional. This can help them explore different options and make an informed decision.

(5) Explore Alternative Treatments: Discuss alternative treatments or therapies that may complement or replace medication. These can include talk therapy, mindfulness techniques, lifestyle changes, or holistic approaches to mental health.

(6) Involve Supportive Friends and Family: Encourage the involvement of friends and family members who can provide emotional support and help monitor the person's well-being. However, be cautious not to pressure or alienate the individual further.

(7) Consider Legal Intervention: In some cases, if the person poses a significant risk to themselves or others due to their untreated mental illness, it may be necessary to involve legal authorities, such as seeking a court-ordered treatment plan. This should be considered as a last resort when all other options have been exhausted.

(8) Self-Care: Caring for someone with mental illness can be emotionally draining. Make sure you take care of your own mental and emotional well-being. Consider joining a support group or seeking guidance from a therapist or counselor.

(9) Respect Autonomy: While you want to encourage the person to take their medication, it's important to respect their autonomy and right to make decisions about their own treatment, as long as they are not endangering themselves or others.

(10) Monitor for Crisis: Keep an eye on the person's mental state. If you notice signs of a crisis, such as severe deterioration in their mental health or increased risk of harm, seek immediate help from emergency services.
LOVE 😘
.

October 4, 2023

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