Should I try to help my family member understand why they are suffering?

[Ubermensch]

Should an attempt be made to help a BPD family member become more aware of what is causing them suffering?

[I_Am_The_Fire]

IMO, I believe you can help them if they ask for it. Otherwise, it may not do any good and it may not be received well. It also may depend on what kind of relationship you have with your family member. Some people are more open to ideas and suggestions than others, even people with BPD, I believe.

[heartandwhole]

Hi Ubermensch,



Welcome to the community. You’ve found a safe place to work through what you are experiencing with your family member.

When you can, tell us what’s happening. Who is the person with BPD in your life?

We’re here to support you.

heartandwhole

[zachira]

You really care about a family member with BPD and would like to help them. You can see that they are suffering and it is so painful when you know there is hope if this person was more aware of what is behind their suffering and would possibly be receptive to treatment. This is a difficult
question to answer without knowing more about your family member. Can you tell us a little more about what is going on? Do take time to look at some of the educational materials on this site, as they may help you to find some answers to your question. Let us know what is going on and how we can help. There are many people on this site who have a family member with BPD who have helped me make tough decisions on how to deal with my own family members with BPD. Take care!