Hi,
Let's see. I know there are a lot of theories about whether to ignore voices or not. Personally I can't ignore mine but I do like distractions like music or reading a book or painting.
I think if you completely ignore the voices it will make it harder for David to tell you what's going on .
It can be very hard to focus on what's going on with voices jabbering at you. It can make you act in slow motion. Also meds can slow you down. Be patient with him when he's like this. I think its a part of the condition. Schizophrenia is very much caused by chemicals in the brain being out of whack. You might try reading the information on this site about it. It's not like being bipolar but moods vary widely.
When he's depressed or fighting voices it might be best to keep conversations short and sweet. It may be all he can handle at that point but if he is conversing and seeming lucid I don't see why you shouldn't talk to him. Talking can root one firmly in reality .
I hope this helps .
Tc
Kayti