“I, (Bride/Groom), take you (Groom/Bride), to be my (wife/husband), to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish; from this day forward until death do us part.”
The onset of schizophrenia in any relationship is a challenge for both partners. Most people diagnosed with this illness were in a healthy mental state prior to making these vows. Hope is not lost. Depending on severity, relationships can survive with the right support.
For partners of the Schizophrenia diagnosed patient, the news can be shocking and painful. Schizophrenia symptoms include change in behavior and personality – resulting in caring, warm individuals to seem withdrawn and callous.These combined actions can make or break the relationship:
Treatment must be accepted and mandatory: Untreated schizophrenia can be disastrous in more ways than one. The behavior may become erratic and violent. Verbal abuse, emotional neglect, and delusional accusations may become an issue. These types of relationships are unhealthy and unsustainable.
A support system must be created: The ill partner may not be able to support the other. It is important that a support system of friends, family, and/or a therapist to meet emotional needs and a sense of normalcy. The schizophrenic partner needs compassion, love, patience, and support as well. These outside activities can help to recharge batteries and recovery from frustration.
No relationship is perfect by any means. Rather than seeing the problem with anger, see them as lessons to be gained in life. A happy marriage with schizophrenia is possible with commitment, compassion, and patience. Love is a powerful emotion that can conquer all that may challenge us.
The Villa Orlando and Pasadena Villa’s Smoky Mountain Lodge are adult intensive psychiatric residential treatment centers for clients with serious mental illnesses. We also provide other individualized therapy programs, step-down residential programs, and less intensive mental health services, such as Community Residential Homes, Supportive Housing, Day Treatment Programs and Life Skills training. Pasadena Villa’s Outpatient Center in Raleigh, North Carolina offers partial hospitalization (PHP) and an intensive outpatient program (PHP). If you or someone you know may need mental health services, please complete our contact form or call us at 407-574-5190 for more information.
