This is a difficult one and I am not sure what to do about it. I have met a girl through church who has become a friend. However, she has definitely got some mental health issues. This is not an issue for me as I am a long time sufferer of depression. However, recently she disclosed a fairly serious crush on our local priest. This man is in his 40s and very committed to his decision to become a priest. He is perfectly happy with the decision he has made and says he has no regrets about giving up the chance of a family. He has lots of friends of which I am one hence I know a bit about him.
My concern is that this girl who has opened up to me is expressing feelings of anger and hate towards the priest - not to his face but to me. She talks of wanting to punch him, says he lead her t believe that they could have a relationship. I really doubt this as I know how committed he is, I also know my friend is misreading lots of things and not just this. Currently she is waiting to see a psychiatrist but I am concerned about her feelings of anger towards the priest. It's all a bit too odd, especially as she would not normally say boo to a goose!
It's all ringing warning bells to me about being obsessive. She has a crush on him but because he is not/cannot reciprocate she is expressing anger. This morning she and I were at the church to help with cleaning and the priest came in, as he has been away for three weeks I gave him a hug and said I was pleased to see him. He chatted with everyone present and then left to get ready for Mass, I stayed for the service but this girl did not.
When I left there was an angry text message from her saying she was leaving the church etc. Becuse I know about her feelings I responded with "Okay, I understand" nod her response was a terse "I don't think you do" (or was it a despairing comment)?
It seems she settled down while he was away and now he's back the negative feelings are back. I don't know how to help her. There are other issues (visions) and I have supported her through an appointment with her GP so she now has a referral to a psychiatrist. I really want to help her through this, she has been through more than most people cope with in a lifetime with physical illness so needs friends.