Posted by madeline on April 20, 2007, at 8:01:46
In reply to Help; close friend in SERIOUS trouble!, posted by Cynthia_Greene on April 19, 2007, at 9:54:27
Caring for someone with a serious mental illness is not easy.
My mom is bipolar and we've had some really really tough times.
I've never given up on the relationship we have because when it is good I have a mom. But, make no mistake, it has taken a lot out of me.
There have been a lot of disappointments and frustrations.
Sometimes I am convinced that she knows exactly what she is doing, doesn't care that it is hurtful, but just indulges herself in all kinds of behaviors that are just outrageous.
Other times I am convinced that it is just the illness.
But, to me, the truth is somewhere in between the two.
There is a fine line between enabling bad behavior and being there to help someone you love and care for.
Sometimes completely disengaging isn't an option. I think it is the nature of love to try to help and comfort.
The decision to try and reach out to this man is obviously yours to make and I don't think you can make a wrong one here.
I mean no one ever said love was easy right?
Maddie
poster:madeline
thread:751315
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20070419/msgs/751528.html