[Lurng]

My wife has Schizophrenia and recently I have dicovered that her late aunt had it also. We have been married for only 5 years now. Her aunt killed herself because she could not find away out, and none of the family talked about her to me. We are isolated from the family now that I am in charge of taking care of my wife. They never call to see how she is doing or not even me. Is this a fact That they didn't even know my last name when we got married. I have been around the family for the past 15 years, but nothing. We are not even able to see the children unless they are supervised by their parents or we visit when they are in town. I talk to my wife about this but she doesn't know the facts either. What should I do get mad or what? Please help me with your expierence at talking with the family. My wife has told me that she thinks some times about ending her life like her aunt did. I pray to God that this will not happen. Please help me to understand my position on this matter. I am terrified to let my wife be alone at home these days.

[EJ711]

Lurng,

It sounds like you have been thrust into the position of caregiver. This is a lonely and scarey position to be in. My impression from what you wrote is that the family has made a concsious decision to stay away. It would be very normal for you to feel angry about their "dumping" a possibly known problem in your lap. To say this has nothing to do with how much you love your dear wife.

Maybe you can find some resources through the NAMI website. It is a mental health site. Do you have any mental health clinics by you? It sounds like you need attendant care for your wife so you can go out, and have some time to yourself and take care of grocery shopping, etc.

You have come to a good site.

Welcome!!

Hugs,

EJ