For about the past 9mos a friend from high school who suffers from schizophrenia!

For about the past 9mos a friend from high school who suffers from schizophrenia will not stop bothering me!?

I met Jack (not his name) in high school (I'm in college now). He was always very awkward and tended be rather annoying, but I tried my best to be patient. I used the grin and bear it approach: that worked until about 9mos when a friend of his committed suicide and Jack turned to me. I just reminded Jack that he is loved and there is definitely a purpose to his life as he was worrying me that he might commit suicide. So basically I tried to help him get through this, but I'm pretty sure that he fantasizes that we're in love now (he's schizophrenic and I am NOT in love with him). He texts me, emails me, calls me, tries to see me multiple times daily!! He tells me that he can tell anything to me and loves me. I try my best to be a friend, but not lead him on, but he won't take 'no' for an answer! He tells me that he can't control himself and I'm concerned about my own safety/sanity.Since I live close to him I'm afraid to block him because he'll just show up at my house. Any ideas? TY!

I am surprised at the question and all three answers. All showed a complete misunderstanding of Schizophrenia. Schizophrenics are no more violent or dangerous than the so called "normal people". I took the liberty of reading your profile and the question you answered for the girl with possible depression. You showed a good understanding of depression and gave some good advice to her. My suggestion is to find out more about schizophrenia than the stereotypes that are passed about by our culture.

I can understand not being interested in a guy but to not be interested in him because he is "crazy" is just prejudice. Just treat him as if he was a "normal" male you are not interested in a relation with. My advice is, as I said, find out more about the condition and give him positive answers from that knowledge to any questions he may have about his condition, like you did for the girl with depression. Above all don't be afraid he is going to be violent. Your skill in handling this in a friendly way will improve your relations with all people.

Good luck, good health, peace and love!