How the hell do you help....

[poppym12]

A young adult who is in denial that they have problems?

20 years old, symptoms of anxiety and depression, eating disorder and drug abuse.

I feel like all I can do is wait. Wait for them to ask for help or wait until they die.

This is a living hell.

[TeenPlusTwenties]

No chance they'll go to the doctor?

I have a 20yo too who at times seems bent on self sabotage (albeit not as serious as yours). You feel helpless, don't you?

[Hales7]

Hi There

I came across this message when looking for help. I have a 27 year old son who as for many years been dependant on drugs and alcohol. He is so kind and warm hearted when he is sober and I have a lot of time for him after all he is always going to be my son. However he is now causing so much damage to my health and his own. He can sleep for 24 hours without eating or drinking he is draw and thin as he doesn't eat properly. My husband and he got into a big row on Saturday and he left our home bags packed. I think he as mental health issues now as he says we are all going to hell and he is the only real person in our family. He said he wants nothing more to do with me or his brothers who have all tried so hard to help him. I don't know where to go for help or advise. This is not only affecting him now but also my mental health I feel like breaking down or running away I don't know what to do to help him or our family. I am trying so hard to keep things together and keep our home a happy one for the sack of our 15year old.

[poppym12]

Sadly not. I did manage to get them to a doctor a couple of years ago, antidepressants were prescribed of which 3 were taken followed by a refusal to go back to the gp.

Things came to a bit of a head last night and I'd like to think we could try to talk things over but everything I say, even 'had a nice day?' is construed as scrutinising their behaviour, snooping etc.

It's soul destroying and I'm having to make myself stay here when all I really want to do is run away. As far as possible.

[Phimma]

My son is now early 40's -he hasn't changed in all the years, actually he's probably worse now, I would describe him as anxious, depressed, paranoid. A nightmare to be around, destroys every relationship.

I feel I've failed him, yet know I've tried everything.

[poppym12]

I'm sorry to hear I'm not the only one struggling. It totally sucks.

[Phimma]

Yes it dies, and no you're not alone.

Drugs are evil, I hate anyone who supports recreational cannabis - it leads too dreadful psychosis.