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Imaginary Friends

by Anonymous

Photo Credit: Steve Calcott

Photo Credit: Steve Calcott

My granddaughter is 11 years old and has been having difficulties in school this year. She is very small for her age and very thin. She entered the Middle School in Sept. Her difficulties have escalated to the point where she does not want to go to school, makes up stories about having her homework done etc.

Today, she told her social work counselor that she has three imaginary friends, two girls and one boy who reside in her head. She can see the boy and he keeps her from sleeping at night. They tell her to do things she doesn't want to do. She can't hear the television because they talk to her.

I am worried about her and wonder if anyone can lead us in the right direction to get her help?

Thank you.

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Schizophrenia
by: Anonymous

That sounds like a perfect description of schizophrenia to me.

I think the best choice in this situation is to seek out a long-term mental health professional for her. Therapy can work wonders with even the severest of cases, so do not lose hope.

In addition, do as much research on this condition as you can in order to understand how real these people probably feel to her. Remember to be loving and patient, keep asking gently about her feelings and her thoughts. She is still your daughter.

Best of luck to you both.

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