DISCLAIMER: Stories reflect lived experiences about addiction, mental health, recovery, & trauma. It’s not medical advice. Some material may be emotionally difficult. If you’re overwhelmed, go to our support library or reach out to someone you trust.
A story about the relentless cycle of addiction and psychosis, following someone who drifts between brief moments of clarity and terrifying breaks from reality. As their mind fractures under the weight of illness, their partner moves through their own quiet storm—grief for who they’re losing, hope for who might return, and fear of what each new episode might bring. Together, they navigate a world shaped by trauma, stigma, and uncertainty, revealing the emotional truth of loving someone whose reality keeps slipping out of reach.
"Do you hear them? They're plotting... hidden in the house."
"There’s no one here but us. I promise you’re safe."
"No! Don’t lie to me. They’re here. I know it."
”There’s nobody here, you have nothing to worry about”
”You betrayed me. You’re plotting with strangers. Don’t think I don’t see it. I hear what you’re saying."
“No I’m not... I’m here for you. I love you. Don’t shut me out."
"You can’t fool me."
“I don’t know what happened. I know you’re not against me. I’m sorry. I don’t want to lose you.”
"You’re back... We will get through this. I believe recovery is possible."
”I miss us. How we were before. I don’t want to be this way. I want to stop... it just feels so real."
”You’re still here. If you can say this, if you can see me, then maybe we can fight this together."
"Who were you just talking to? I know someone’s here. This all can’t be a delusion.”
“I’m sorry but it is. There’s nobody here but you and I. This is getting so hard.”
“I don’t want this. I’m so tired. Please don’t give up on me."
"I’m holding onto threads, I’ll keep holding. Because every time you return, even for a heartbeat, I remember why I love you."
"I never meant to make you unhappy. I hate what we’ve become. I’ve ruined everything. I’m sorry I keep hurting you. I know I need to make changes."
"This moment... this is you. The man beneath the chaos. I see you."
Silence. Will he find the strength to seek help, to break free from the cycle that binds him?
Or will the pendulum continue its merciless swing, dragging them both deeper into the shadows?
Holding their breath, caught between hope and despair, waiting for the next move in this fragile dance of love and addiction.
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