You’re right, I don’t want to jump to the conclusion that mental illness has a role in this... I think that possibility is one that my mom and I often consider because it makes it easier to be sympathetic to my dad. If he’s mentally ill, then it’s not something that he can help, and might even result in this loop of not feeling up to looking for help and thus never receiving the help he needs.

I don’t think a counselor will necessarily turn him into a kind, respectful being who is content with his station in life and his dependency. But I guess I think it might help him sort out some of his feelings and why he’s been so inactive, despite having accomplished a lot in his education. It doesn’t even have to be a therapist... I think he just needs someone to maybe help him see things a different way, or find something new to be passionate about. If he had something to feel accomplished about, maybe he wouldn’t feel so inferior and feel like he needs to lash out at his high-earning wife, you know? If he had someone to talk with about how the past has led up to where he is today, maybe he’d gain some self-awareness and be able to move on. But of course, he’ll never search out such a person on his own.