Preparing questions in advance can help patients and their families to have more meaningful discussions with physicians. The following questions may help if a factitious disorder is suspected or diagnosed in a friend or family member:

1. How can you be sure my loved one is faking symptoms? What tests have you done to rule out other causes?
   
   
2. My loved one becomes hostile whenever it is suggested that his/her symptoms are not real. How should I handle this?
   
   
3. Is my loved one aware that he/she is faking symptoms?
   
   
4. What type of therapy might benefit my loved one? Can you recommend a qualified therapist?
   
   
5. How can I encourage my loved on to participate in therapy?
   
   
6. Are there medications that may help my loved one? What are the options, their potential risks and benefits?
   
   
7. Is my loved on a danger to himself/herself or others? What steps should I take to prevent problems?
   
   
8. Might other members of the family benefit from counseling or therapy? Can you recommend a therapist or support group?