Introduction
Mental illness is a complicated issue that affects not only the person struggling with it but also those around them. It can be challenging to know when it’s time to walk away from someone with a mental illness, but it’s necessary to protect yourself and your own mental health. In this article, we’ll explore the signs to look for, tips for setting boundaries, and ways to prioritize your own well-being when dealing with someone with a mental illness.
Signs to Look For
It’s crucial to recognize warning signs that indicate it may be time to walk away from someone with a mental illness. Some of these signs include:
- Threats of violence or harm to themselves or others
- Persistent substance abuse or addiction
- Refusing to seek help or follow through with treatment plans
- Being overly dependent on you for emotional support or financial assistance
- Repetitive lying, manipulating, or gaslighting
- Exhibiting erratic, impulsive, or dangerous behavior
- Showcasing no regard for others’ feelings or well-being
If you observe these signs, it’s essential to take action and prioritize your safety and well-being.
Your Own Mental Health
Caring for someone with a mental illness can be emotionally taxing. Still, prolonged exposure can cause significant mental health problems, specifically anxiety and depression. That’s why it’s essential to prioritize taking care of your own mental health before deciding to walk away from someone with a mental illness. Some tips for taking care of your mental health include:
- Sticking to a routine that includes healthy habits like exercising, eating healthy, and sleeping an adequate amount of hours
- Engaging in activities that bring the occasional release like hanging out with friends, reading, or watching movies
- Limiting your exposure to the person’s behaviors that triggers your anxiety or depression
- Reaching out to a mental health professional to seek help
Setting Boundaries
It’s crucial to establish boundaries with someone with a mental illness to maintain a safe and healthy relationship for both parties. For example, you can:
- Set clear expectations for acceptable behavior or communication
- Limit the number of visits or calls, and how and when you communicate
- Refuse financial or emotional support that may cause an unhealthy dependency
- Address any manipulative or abusive tactics, firmly but without anger
Remember that establishing boundaries is an ongoing process, and it’s necessary to enforce them consistently.
Resources for Help
It’s challenging to care for someone with a mental illness without support. Thanks to the internet, people can access resources and reach out to support groups that offer aid, validation, and guidance. Support organizations include:
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Provides a wealth of resources, including online discussion groups, local in-person support groups, hotlines, and education programs to educate individuals about mental illness.
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) – A valuable source of educational information that includes clinical trials, referrals to mental health professionals, and a directory of support groups.
- Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) – Offers a network of support groups and advocacy services.
- Mental Health America (MHA) – Provides both locals face-to-face support groups and a directory to aid individuals in finding mental health professionals in their area.
Sharing Your Story
The decision to walk away from someone with a mental illness is never an easy one, and it’s essential to have a supportive community to help you through the process. Reaching out to others who have gone through similar situations can be a significant source of comfort and inspiration.
Here is an example of someone who shared their story:
Mary took care of her schizophrenic sister for five years until she realized that her mental health was deteriorating because of it. Her sister refused to seek treatment or medication, and her aggression and paranoia had made it impossible for Mary to engage in her regular daily activities. Mary felt overwhelmed, worried, and pulled in too many directions as the primary breadwinner and caregiver for her sister. She finally made the tough decision to walk away and seek assistance. She felt guilty and conflicted about it, but at the same time, she knew it was necessary to preserve her sanity.
Conclusion
Walking away from someone with a mental illness is never easy, but it’s sometimes necessary to prioritize your own safety and well-being. By recognizing warning signs, setting boundaries, and seeking support and resources, you can make this decision with confidence. Remember to prioritize your own mental health and seek help when you need it.
