I have a brother struggling with psychosis being held a state mental facility for treatment following a violent crime he committed last year. Over the last several months I have had discussions with him over the phone while he was in jail and then later at a state mental health facility, the majority of the conversations have been poor. He is filled with anger and paranoia, has been in fights with fellow inmates, altercations with jail staff, months of solitary confinement, he’s a mess. He has threatened me on several occasions and my mother once, and over the last few months I have seemingly become the main target of his anger. Our conversations have continued to worsen and devolve into arguments that I try to avoid, but there is no reasoning with him.

Due to a technicality his charges may end up being dropped once his time at the state mental facility is ended. Needless to say I’m very worried about his release, he has refused medication and therapy so far, and his condition is not improving. My family seemingly is leaning towards having him move back in with my mom. I am extremely concerned about this scenario and am worried for the safety of our family, I have voiced this opinion to family members, who feel we cannot abandon him. While I agree, I’m not sure how to balance the safety of our family with supporting my mentally ill brother. I would like to explore a halfway house scenario, or learn what other options we have, is there anyone else who has been in this type of position who can provide advice?