To make this a priority, set a weekly date to spend time with the person. Ensure regular social contact by designating a day each week to share a meal or engage in activity, like yoga.
Respond to a traumatic account by asking if he is ok now and asking how you can help make him feel more comfortable.
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Some beliefs may be so unusual they seem ridiculous or funny to you. Laughing or making comments like “That’s crazy!” are belittling and dismissive and should be avoided.
If the person becomes agitated when offered alternative explanations, abandon this strategy and instead note the current absence of the stalker to help him feel safe at the moment.
Be sure to acknowledge the person’s emotional experience before changing the subject to express empathy. Before introducing the distraction, try saying, “That’s really scary, but you’re safe here. "
You might say something like “This has to be really stressful for you; maybe we should find someone to talk to about this. "
The person may not want you present in the exam room or therapists office. Offer to wait in the waiting room to show support without prying.
If you spend a lot of time for the person, consider setting reminders on your cell phone when it is time for him to take medication. This will help him remember to take medication regularly and may reduce embarrassment about interrupting an activity or conversation to take scheduled medication.
If you notice signs of relapse, find out if the person has been taking medication as directed. Suggest talking to her doctor about changing treatment if it no longer seems effective or compliance is an issue.
If you believe the person may harm himself or others, call emergency services immediately. You should then call the people on the list of contacts to tell them about what is happening and where the person is being taken.
Practice deep breathing to help calm yourself and others. Discuss your crisis plan with the person, so she knows what to expect. This should include remaining calm and calling appropriate contacts. Find a place for you both to sit. This may help reduce agitation. Speak in soft tones. Shouting will likely cause additional stress for all involved.
