If a loved one threatens violence 

• Don't think you can handle it alone. Contact a mental health organization, such as NAMI, and call a friend or neighbor to help.
• Don't leave the person alone.
• List all peculiar behavior and behavior patterns: times, dates, length of pattern.
• List questions, suspicions, and fears to ask professionals.
• If the person refuses to see a professional, call or go yourself to get help and advice.
• Tell the authorities about any weapons (especially guns and knives) the person could use, especially if threatening to kill.

Susan J. Shelley