It is not easy to help someone with paranoia. Paranoid people don't see the world like most people and are easily alienated or suspicious. It is essential to be sensitive and understanding to help them get the care they need and to prevent them from feeling negatively judged. One of the best ways to support a paranoid person is to reassure them when they are struggling with delusional thoughts. Additionally, you can help her develop defense mechanisms that last over time and encourage her to seek professional help.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Dealing with Delusional Thoughts
Step 1. Avoid arguing with those who are paranoid
When a friend or family member expresses delusional thoughts, listen to them, but don't argue with them. The delusion seems quite real to him, so you won't be able to convince him otherwise.
Arguing may even make the situation worse, because the other person will feel like no one understands them
Step 2. Avoid talking about his paranoia
Think about understanding his state of mind. Put yourself in her shoes by trying to capture the emotions she is feeling, but don't say anything that fuels her delirium.
- For example, if a friend tells you they are being followed by some kidnappers, don't go along with them. Instead, try to tell him, "This is really scary, but I'll make sure you are safe."
- He claims to have a different perception from his own, without trying to make him change his mind. For example, you might say, "No, I haven't seen anyone following us."
Step 3. Ask a few questions
See if you can get more information about his fears. This way, you will be able to understand where his delusion comes from and you will have a clearer idea of how you can reassure him. He may feel even better after talking to you.
Ask him an open-ended question, like, "Why do you think you're being followed by kidnappers?" or "Would you like to tell me about it?"
Step 4. Help him feel calmer and safer
If something in the surrounding area scares him, take him somewhere else. Offer him something to eat or a glass of water. Reassure him by showing that you are not afraid and by telling him that you will make sure that nothing bad happens to him.
- For example, if you are in a building with a family member who thinks someone is texting them via the broadcasting system, take them out.
- If he is on drug therapy, ask him when he took the last dose. If too much time has passed according to the timing of taking, urge him to take the drug as soon as possible.
Part 2 of 3: Develop a Routine That Improves Mental Health
Step 1. Help the paranoid person maintain a positive spirit
Whether it's a friend or family member, when you are with them, be an example to follow in order to think and behave positively. Offer to help him come up with some mantras or phrases to use when his paranoia starts to take over.
- For example, you may find it helpful to repeat these kinds of phrases: "Others are too busy worrying about themselves to think of me" or "Even though I'm afraid, I'm not actually in danger."
- Encourage him to write a mantra and take it with him so he can read it when needed.
Step 2. Help the individual put their paranoia into perspective
To keep him grounded, invite him to share his thoughts with you or anyone else he trusts. Encourage him to give others the benefit of the doubt if he doesn't know their true intentions towards him.
This strategy works best with those with less severe paranoia and can accept that sometimes their judgment may be inconsistent. On the other hand, those who are seriously paranoid are not inclined to take into consideration the point of view of others
Step 3. Encourage him to adopt some balance in his daily life
A healthy lifestyle can make any mental health problem more manageable. Whether it's a friend or family member, help them find ways to reduce stress, sleep well, eat a balanced diet, and train regularly.
For example, if practiced regularly, physical activity can help improve mood and stimulate cognitive functions impaired by paranoia
Step 4. Encourage him to improve in areas where he excels
Many people with paranoia have special skills or are successful in professional life. Therefore, identify the areas in which this person stands out and encourage them to engage in whatever they like and can highlight their abilities.
Let's assume he's a really creative person. You may want to incentivize her to submit her work at a nearby art contest so that she keeps engaging in stimulating activities
Step 5. Be prepared for the most critical situations
If she has schizophrenia, help her develop a contingency plan when her emotional state is most stable. Collect important information, such as the doctor's phone number, and discuss who will look after the children or pets in the event of hospitalization.
You will need to carry this information with you at all times, perhaps written on a business card or sheet of paper
Part 3 of 3: Helping a Paranoid Person Find Treatment
Step 1. Learn to distinguish between paranoia and anxiety
On the surface, paranoia may resemble anxiety, but in reality they are very different. Unlike anxiety, it involves the onset of delusional thoughts. The two disorders require different treatments, so it is important not to confuse them.
- For example, an anxious person might worry about the idea of having an illness, while a paranoid individual might be convinced that his doctor has caused him an illness on purpose.
- Anxiety is much more common than paranoia. Those who are anxious raise the threshold of attention in case of danger, while those who are paranoid give the impression of feeling in danger at any moment.
Step 2. Avoid finding a diagnosis or treating a paranoid
If you have not yet received an official diagnosis, it is important that it be issued by a professional. Self-made diagnoses are often inaccurate and, as a result, there is a risk of following the wrong treatment.
Step 3. Encourage him to see a doctor or psychotherapist
He will likely need medication, psychotherapy, or both to manage his paranoia. Ask your doctor what treatment options are available to you. If he has trouble getting to his office, offer to accompany him or look after his children.
- Since a paranoid person does not trust others, it is not at all easy to get him to go to the doctor. If he doesn't want to heal himself, don't push him too hard, otherwise he might start to suspect you too.
- If he continues to refuse, you could say, "I know you think there are no problems, but I would feel much better if I consulted a doctor. I would be more peaceful. If the visit goes well, I will not bother you any more." That way, if you ask the question as your need, they will likely accept your request.
Step 4. Call 911 if you think he is in danger
If he begins to have strange delusions or if he threatens to harm himself or others, he needs urgent medical attention. Don't wait, trying to figure out if he feels better alone, but call 911. The hospital is the safest place until he recovers his mental stability.
- It is plausible that something is going on that he is afraid of when he is in a daze. However, if it is a bizarre delusion, there is no chance of it actually happening.
- For example, if he believes that aliens have given him the ability to fly, it is certainly a bizarre delusion.
