I'm sorry to hear that you're experiencing this situation with your neighbor. Dealing with someone who is showing signs of fixation or obsession, especially when there are children involved, can be distressing. Your safety and the safety of your family is of utmost importance.
If you have not done so already, you should report any concerning incidents to the police, especially if they violate any previously established orders such as an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO). Keeping the authorities informed of ongoing issues can be helpful in ensuring your safety.
Maintain a record of all encounters, no matter how small. Take photos or videos discreetly if possible. This can serve as evidence if needed in the future. Ensure that your home is secure. This might mean installing security cameras, reinforcing locks, or even putting up a higher fence if it's permissible in your area.
While it might be tempting to confront your neighbor, doing so might escalate the situation. It's generally better to avoid direct confrontations and instead let authorities handle any disputes.
If you believe there is a pattern of harassment or if your safety feels threatened, it might be a good idea to speak to a lawyer about your options.
Let friends, family, and neighbors know about the situation so they can be alert and supportive.
In some situations, mediation might be an option to address and hopefully resolve underlying issues. However, this step should be taken with caution and based on legal advice, especially if there's a significant power imbalance or if you feel threatened.
Understanding schizophrenia can also help in navigating these situations. It's essential to recognize that while many people with schizophrenia live regular lives without causing harm to others, some might experience symptoms that can lead to disruptive or concerning behaviors. Not all persons with schizophrenia will exhibit dangerous or aggressive behaviors, but in situations where you feel threatened, it's crucial to prioritize your safety.
Move (as a last resort): If you find that the situation does not improve and you consistently feel unsafe, you might consider relocating. While this is a significant decision, your family's safety and peace of mind are paramount.
Your safety and well-being, as well as that of your children, should always be the top priority. Always trust your instincts, and if you feel in immediate danger, contact the authorities right away.
I too have lived next door to a paranoid schizophrenic for the past two years. I work full-time and am also studying. He wakes me up most nights shouting and screaming and banging around his house. The housing association are largely uninterested and I too am expected to just learn to live with it. This is grossly unfair.
I'm experiencing the same things with my upstairs neighbour, I can hear him talking to him self most nights. He is moving soon but a little worried as when I hear him talking and I'm doing something, I can hear him saying you won't need that as your coming with me .
I agree with you 100% and this is based on personal experience.
Thank you for the first realistic answer I have read so far to this post.
Ok no idea if you’ll see this but I liked your reply and your expertise so thought I’d try. We have a paranoid schizophrenic neighbour who used to leave scary letters in the sense of an obsession at my front door. This amongst several other things led to an AVO. Just today saw him staring at me and my kids over the fence when playing in backyard. I said can I help you? He stared longer and walked away. No idea how to handle these encounters. We think he is obsessed with me, fixated on me, is that a problem?
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