Well talking to her about your feeling first, things you’ve been through maybe some things that you concider phycological defects that you feel you may have had at some time in your life. Then simply listening is very powerful. Be patient, and understanding enough to let them know that your are there to share those feelings with them. And never Judge, understanding even when you don’t is sometimes the best thing. Accept them for who they are also. No matter how quirky they might be. Let them always know– YOU UNDERSTAND. Books also help for letting the family know whats going on inside her head. They may give as gifts and when they ask tell her to tell them–”This is me.” or “This book is a voice for the many tribulations I seem to be familiar with.” inscripted in the books. Let them deal with it sometimes in their own way. Whether it be socializing to the fullest or retreating for a while– seclusion does not always mean something is wrong sometimes it means– I need to have peace for a second help her family understand that. They are unique- special(”,)
Also send them some of Therese’s articles and let them know why this was sent and say something likee.. “This article helped me learn something about myself.” They have to learn to open up share those painful experiences, it helps to understand the unique you. Why you are you. It helps.
I have tried these and I’m so thankful for this sweet, enduring blog and a new way for me to communicate..besides going off the handle. that use to be– my first reaction (smile) many others I’m sure understand that. It’s hard when you are not understood. But hey if the writer of this blog can put it all out there– then so can I darn it..cheers. Today is a good day.
Good luck.

I have a depressive disorder for which I take medication, and I have been hospitalized in the past. I have received therapy on many occasions over the years, when it was necessary. I am also a licensed counselor who currently works as a freelance writer. A year ago a policeman in my small town committed suicide, and I wrote an article recently where I interviewed his colleagues about him and the effect his death had on them and the department. I also wrote a longer accompanying piece on suicide, depression, and prevention. That was put together largely by materials given to me by the Mental Health Association of Illinois Valley. These recent posts made me think of those articles. I will email them to anyone who wants them. Please understand I am not doing this to promote myself or my writing, really I only write for this one tiny Independent newspaper in my town, plus a small amount of pro bono work. I just thought maybe these articles might help people, or be of interest to them. It was difficult for me to write them, which is why I put it off for the better part of a year.