Posted by Dinah on July 28, 2002, at 9:01:08
In reply to Re: not posting, that answer was no help, posted by oracle on July 27, 2002, at 16:53:12
(Ummmm. Lou is only blocked from posting, not from reading. I certainly recognize that your intentions are good, but I thought I'd throw in that reminder.)
I'm not Dr. Bob, but if it would be any help I'll give some examples from my real life (completely disguised of course) and how I choose to deal with it (at my therapist's advice).
Situation 1. Person is suffering from a mistaken idea that involves ME. I know it is mistaken, because after all I am me. Family friend Millie brings me about 50 presents, all suitable for an infant girl, and congratulates me on my new addition. I thank her for thinking of me, tell her how kind it was, but gently point out that she must have me confused with someone else. (Later might call Millie's husband to make sure Millie is still med compliant.)
Situation 2. Error in fact. Millie reminds me that yesterday when we were eating lunch at the White House, President Clinton asked her advice on foreigh affairs. I probably mention that I had been in Philadelphia yesterday, and couldn't have been in Washington. I might or might not mention that Clinton is no longer president. After all, I am not her mental health professional, and am not equipped to intervene in a helpful manner. I probably would call her husband though.
Situation 3. Hard to believe matters of faith. I don't touch those at all. Millie tells me that this morning while shopping at Wal-Mart, an angel of the Lord descended in glory and told her not to use the interstate that day or she would be run over by a truck. I say nothing because, well, how do I know if an angel of the Lord hadn't decided to descend in glory in Wal-Mart. The beliefs of many religions would seem at first glance to be rather improbable. I may have my own beliefs about the matter, but I'm not about to argue them with Millie, because it's pointless. I can't prove it isn't so more than she can prove it is. I would, however, probably try to change the subject. (And I'd probably still call her husband, and I might even avoid the interstate that day.)
Of course, on the internet, we can't call anyone's husband.
In no case was Millie a danger to herself or others.
Just my own thoughts on the matter.
poster:Dinah
thread:6488
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/admin/20020725/msgs/6803.html