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I have met and dated and become involved with a man who has a diagnosis of schizophrenia. He is very intelligent, and thoughtful and kind. We have a great deal in common, and thouroughly enjoy each other's company. We don't seem to be able to get enough of each other. It took a while for him to feel comfortable enough around me to talk about his diagnosis. He takes a low dosage of Abilify to help him control his illness. He is the nicest man, and helps me with anything I ask. He is a compassionate lover, and I just want to make him understand how much I appreciate him. He says that sometimes he feels uncomfortable around other people, but I think he is a little paranoid of what they may think of him. I believe he has a bit of an inferiority complex, because he comes from a family of exceptionally high achievers. He does have a grad degree in one of the sciences. He is also very handsome and athletic, so he doesn't look like he is troubled. Has anyone else dated someone with this illness?

I haven't dated anyone but I've had many patients who have successfully been treated and had productive lives. The important thing is for them to STAY on the medicine.

I've taught a lot of kids with that diagnosis. One was demonstrably dangerous but when he was medicated, we really got along. I was bigger than he was and we had a good relationship but all of my teachers were afraid of him. The rest were incredibly gentle, intelligent, wonderful kids who had to live with a disorder that would cripple me. Some of them were downright brilliant.

My sweet nephew has schizophrenia. He was diagnosed about ten years ago. As with any serious chronic illness, vigilant medical care is important. He struggles at times, but is the loveliest, kindest man.

Knowledge is power. DN is very involved in both research participation (cool brain mapping at the NIH), as well as educating others. It's critical to stay on top of med management. The problem is that compliance can be a problem due to side effects (and symptom improvement can cause some to stop meds, too). Finding the best doc with the best psychopharmacology background vis a vis this particular disease is important. (I like university hospitals for things like this--serious stuff where cutting edge makes a real difference.)

It's a difficult disease. But it does not preclude love and happiness.

Thanks everyone for the input. I have done quite a bit of reading, and will continue to have an open mind regarding our relationship.

I dealt with FT's XW while FT and I raised their son.

She would be OK and then snap..it was always a med problem with her.

Exactly what Dr. PJ said !

The important thing is for them to STAY on the medicine.

My grandmother had schizophrenia. I was very young when she passed, but from what I have been told she was a stable, loving woman when she took her meds. When she went off them it was a nightmare for everyone.

As with anyone we choose to spend our time with, we need to decide what we are willing to work with and what may just be too hard. I say that unless something manifests that you are uncomfortable with, it should be fine to pursue something with him. He sounds very nice.

My brother died from this disease . He had it really bad though. Meds need to be evaluated constantly. He stopped altogether and was not kept in the hospital as he should have been. I guess I'm thread jacking.

Meds and consistent use and evaluation- very important!!

Many get better as they reach middle age I've heard?

Good luck...