NOTE: The question below reached us through our “online hotline” button which lets anyone send a question to a local counselor at Ozark Guidance — in a completely anonymous way. The email comes in with no email address and no identifying information. We set it up this way so women would feel free to write about anything on their mind.
I have a 20 year old daughter that is on the verge of a breakdown. She goes to college, had a recent breakup with a boyfriend, feels alone and has PTSD. I have gotten to the point where I don’t know what to say to her anymore. It’s the same response from her: “I don’t want to live.” She says that I don’t love her (because I don’t know how to fix her).
She has seen a psychologist for 5 years and it’s the same old thing. She talks and nobody listens. She knows all the coping skills and says none are working. Sometimes it feels like she just wants me to feel sorry for her. She is very mad at me because I don’t know what to do. How else can I help her?
By Dr. Jared Sparks, Ozark Guidance Clinical Director
Thank you for question. Because your daughter is talking about not wanting to live, your question has very serious implications.
For that reason, this response is more directive and shorter than most of the responses shared in this blog. Your daughter is an adult and is ultimately in charge of her own care. However, most medical and mental health providers welcome family involvement when it’s helpful. If there is danger to your daughter or to others, it could be appropriate to share those concerns with your daughter’s psychologist.
If there is immediate danger, you should call 911.
Therapists at Ozark Guidance would be happy to answer your questions and read what’s on your mind. Click the butterfly icon below to fill out an anonymous submission form with your question or concern. The form contains NO identifying information and is designed to give local women an online place to share concerns with a person qualified to offer feedback.
Disclaimer: This RESPONSE does not provide medical advice It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on nwaMotherlode or Ozark Guidance websites.
