[DianaB]

Brenda.....My parents were divorced and my father was paranoid schizophrenic and I know that mental illness is very hard to live with. We (my husband and I)went through the "I'm doing alright and I don't need my medicine" phase with my Dad too. We were at the point of telling my Dad that if he didn't get help that we never wanted anything more to do with him when he finally listened to us and got help. I can't image living WITH your situation. It was hard enough just dealing with my Dad occassionally.

You have to take care of yourself and find joy around you or his illness will pull you down too. Find little things to be happy about. Draw happiness and joy from your family. If you're planning on staying in this marriage you have to draw your strength from friends and family. You have to be the strong one. Don't let his ups and downs control your life.

I'm praying that the Lord will give you strength and wisdom on how to deal with this, also that you'll have joy and laughter in your life, and good friends to help you. I also pray that you'll have God's presence near you to help you with what ever you may face. Just know that you're not facing this alone, God is with you and we are here for you as well. Keep us posted how things are going. Love and prayers--Diana