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You do not have to win the argument
Accept the fear without agreeing.
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WEAVE FAMILY, ONE PAGE
YOU DO NOT HAVE TO WIN THE ARGUMENT TO KEEP THEM SAFE
'I do not hear it. I can see you are frightened. Let us go somewhere quiet and call the team.'
The fear can feel real. Arguments, rapid questions and shame can raise fear and weaken trust. Families need support too.
Accept the fear without pretending the belief is true.
ONE VOICE: One person speaks in short, respectful sentences. ASK: What would feel safer right now? CALL EARLY: Note sleep, self-care and behaviour changes. Call the care team.
Give space. Offer food and water. Reduce noise. Keep a simple routine.
Do not laugh, threaten, crowd, secretly record, use force or follow unsafe demands. Do not give any medicine that has not been prescribed.
Agree care and crisis steps. Say when danger cannot stay secret. Get support for carers too.
ASK: What can family know? Early signs and actions? Carer support?
DO NOT MANAGE DANGER ALONE: Keep a safe distance if needed. Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency service for immediate danger; commands to harm or suicidal intent; violence, severe confusion or unsafe wandering; or inability to eat, drink or meet basic needs. Do not use force. 24-hour support: Tele-MANAS 14416 / 1800-89-14416.
Dr. Wilfred D'souza, Dr. Niharika Reddy. weave.clinic/family