True, insane is not the word for it but there isn't an accepted term available. Psychotic is the actual term but most people assume that means someone inclined to violence.
psychosis: derangement of personality and loss of contact with reality and causing deterioration of normal social functioning
If he really is losing touch with reality to the point that schizophrenia/bipolar/a related disorder could be diagnosed (check the DSM?) then you need professional (psychiatric) help, but he will resist. Do whatever you can to stall him, talk to him and play along with the delusions if you have to. Ask if you can go with him.
You can't just walk up to him and say "hey you're crazy lets go get some medication" but this is essentially what needs to happen. Maybe watch a movie that hints at this or deals with mental illness (Fight Club, A Beautiful Mind). Use any kind of interest or "thing he's into" you can think of to reach him.
What did he mean by "leaving"? Go out and live off the land? A metaphor for what he's already done or for "leaving this world?"
Chances are he will live in his own reality until forced by some traumatic event to seek help in actual reality (doctors). You can only hope that he doesn't get physically hurt but most people in this situation do.
-saladami
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