A few years ago there was quite a discussion here at Psych Central about whether or not we were enabling others when we listened to them "too much". I've always been a believer in trying to help others by giving them the support they need. In fact, recently I've come to realize that maybe we really are enabling them when we show compassion and understanding. I believe we are enabling them to fight the battle for their very lives.

Listening to the news about the huge number of our soldiers returning home and commiting suicide has prompted me to write this. My own brother is a mentally disabled veteran who was in the military during the Vietnam War. I support and encourage him in every possible way. I would much rather he be a little bit dependent on me, his caseworker and his doctors than not be here at all.

Don't be afraid to enable those you care about to keep fighting.