A woman turned to Reddit for advice after her husband’s delusions of having ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) began to consume their lives.
Despite multiple medical confirmations that he doesn’t have the condition, his obsession with it continues, putting their marriage and family life under immense strain. Here’s their story.
He Admits: ‘I Hate Being Alive, Except for Our Son’
“He hates even trying to talk to me,” she wrote, recounting a painful dinner conversation where her husband admitted he hates being alive.
His fixation on the disease has led him to declare that nothing brings him joy anymore except their son — yet even that thought is overshadowed by his belief that he’ll be dead within a year.
Reddit Reacts: Is This Suicidal Ideation?
Reddit users were quick to offer their perspectives, with many expressing concern. “This feels like suicidal ideation,” one commenter wrote, suggesting that his obsession might be a way of validating a desire to die.
They recommended inpatient therapy if he is unwilling to address his mental health, emphasizing the need to prioritize the family’s well-being.
One Child Ignored: ‘Pretty Bloody Awful,’ Says Reader
Others highlighted his behavior toward their older child, whom he seems to neglect emotionally.
“Your husband needs to understand his condition is affecting not just you but your children,” one woman stressed, calling his favoritism toward their biological son “pretty bloody awful.”
Concerning Behavior: ‘I’m Worried for Your Safety,’ a Commenter Warns
Several comments pointed out the husband’s statements about life and death as red flags. “I’m mildly concerned for the safety of your children and you,” another reader admitted. The depth of his delusion is alarming and poses potential risks to the entire family.
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Inpatient or Leave: A Nurse’s Tough Love Advice
A nurse advised, “Inpatient or leave. These symptoms are life-debilitating,” reflecting a general consensus that professional intervention is needed. Many echoed this sentiment, seeing inpatient care as a last resort to address his deep-seated fears and OCD-related delusions.
A Childhood Marred: ‘Living with a Hypochondriac Parent’
One woman shared her experience growing up with a hypochondriac mother, warning that such behavior can destroy a family.
“My dad turned to alcoholism, and now I have no relationship with my mother,” she shared, illustrating the long-term impact of unchecked mental illness on loved ones.
Not All Help Is Equal: The Reality of Inpatient Facilities
However, another user cautioned that not all inpatient programs are effective. “Many facilities are worthless,” they explained, advocating for a residential facility that offers a more comprehensive, community-based approach.
This was echoed by someone who had a positive experience in such a facility, emphasizing the importance of quality care.
Specialized Therapy Needed: ‘He Can’t Break Free Alone,’ Says OCD Sufferer
A person with OCD offered compassion and a suggestion: “He needs extensive OCD-specific therapy. He can’t break free from this delusion alone.” This comment resonated with many who stressed the need for specialized treatment to help him navigate his fears and regain control over his life.
A Family’s Crossroad: Stay and Help or Walk Away?
In the end, the advice was unanimous: Her husband needs professional help. The emotional toll on the family is undeniable, but there remains hope for healing with the right support.
For now, the wife faces a difficult choice — whether to stay and help or to step away for the sake of her sanity and her children’s well-being.