Unsure how to proceed

Hi @Betty-Jane26

I just wanted to stop by to welcome you to the forums

This is a difficult position to be in and I'm glad that you're reaching out to hear from others who may have gone through a similar situation. I know that you're certainly not alone and that we have many members on here who support loved ones through mental health crises.

I look forward to seeing the community response

Take care,

Ru-bee

Hey @Betty-Jane26

It sounds like you've been an incredible source of stability for your nephew during a really frightening time. That safety you provided in February likely made a world of difference for him 💚

It's understandable that you're feeling unsure about the next steps. Balancing the desire to keep a loved one off the streets with the reality of managing untreated psychosis is an immense weight to carry, even with your background in nursing.

Since your nephew is fearful of being "locked up," he is likely operating from a place of high anxiety and hypervigilance. Sometimes, instead of trying to convince someone their reality isn't real (which can increase resistance), it helps to validate the emotion behind it. You could say something like "I can see you're really worried about losing your freedom, and I want you to feel safe here." It might also be helpful to have a "low-pressure" conversation about what staying with you long-term looks like. This isn't about an ultimatum, but about exploring what "staying safe" means for both of you.

Since he is resistant to formal treatment, you might want to look into community-based options that feel less clinical or restrictive. Mobile outreach mental health teams may be in your area. They can visit your home for a chat and support, rather than having to visit a hospital. Step-up/Step-down services might be an option, these are residential, community-managed environments that feel more like a home than a ward. I also suggest looking into peer-led support. Sometimes talking to someone who has "been there" and experienced psychosis can bridge the gap in a way family and clinicians can't.

You aren't alone in this 💚

Does your nephew have any particular hobbies or interests that usually help him feel grounded? Sometimes focusing on those small "anchor points" can help stabilise things while you figure out the bigger picture.

Hello @Betty-Jane26,

sorry to hear that you are going through this tough situation. This is not an easy thing to go through. It's good that your nephew has insight that they are not well and that the streets are not safe. I have a sibling with similar mental health issues where they believed that it was okay to be on the streets and they lack the insight to their mental health issues. They got in trouble with the police and were put on a community mental health order and stuck to medication and seeing a psychiatrist for a while but recently have fallen off the band wagon.

It's in situations like this where you can support them but need to take a step back and let them see what they want to do. If you try to force them or convince them to get help,you will end up stressed out and go around in circles. It's also important that you feel safe with them. It's only when they are a threat to themselves or others that something can be done. I don't know where you are in Aus, but here in NSW we have the mental health line that can come out and assess him and give good advice. Please take care of your own well-being.

Thank you for your insights. I have been speaking to Beyond Blue and have some contacts to now try.

Thank you.

Hello @Betty-Jane26,

you are welcome. I hope those contacts help. This link might help out also, escpecially for your nephew. https://askizzy.org.au/

@Betty-Jane26 ,

sorry forget to mention it allows you to search for essential services in your area.

Thank you I so appreciate any suggestions.