I put this question to my son. He thinks your friend's behavior is a "cry for help," but not necessarily psychiatric help. He says just be a friend to her and remain a part of her life.
He thinks this part of my advice is too much and would likely shut her down:
Quote:
Originally Posted by costello
Then I'd talk to her about her ideas in a non-confrontational way. Just ask her why she thinks the mom is poisoning her animals. Not like a lawyer or a cop asking her to provide evidence of her allegations but just like a friend chatting with a friend. If she says the kids are spying on her, you can say mildly, "It just looks like they're playing in their backyard to me." If she insists they're spying, ask her how she can tell, what would they be doing if they were just playing and what are they doing that indicates spying.
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You may have to just follow your gut and feel your way along as you go. That's what I mean by the quote in my signature:
"Traveler, there is no path. The path must be forged as you walk."
Ultimately you may convince her to accept psychiatric help because she trusts you and your advice. That won't happen if you force treatment on her.