[loser_child]

If there was a person that you truly loved, but they needed help and the person refused to seek attention theirselves, wouldn't you go against their word and get them help anyway?

[Taonuviel]

I have... but it's not something I do lightly. I've had to intervene for a few people who have been suicidal, one of which I've had to go behind her back a couple times to let some trustable people know when she's too bad off to ask them for help. Normally she'll go to someone herself if I encourage her to, but every once in a while I know after talking with her that she needs someone to speak up for her.
It's a very difficult thing.

[dexter]

I agree with T...

I do take personal confidentiality very seriously with my friends, however my friendship "owner's manual" says I am to be concerned with their well being overall, as a friend. Most of the time keeping a secret fits with keeping them happy and secure. But if I believe they are in a dangerous situation, may hurt themselves or others (physically or emotionally) then I believe that as a friend I should do what is necessary to help.

First step would still be to try to work with them, but if they refused I would quickly go and tell whomever I thought could help. Sometimes I can still respect privacy... contact a doctor but don't tell their family for instance.

It can be hard especially when one is not sure... If someone is in trouble it may be harmful to wait to "convince" myself with evidence that my perception is correct so sometimes I err on the side of caution. I've gotten in trouble for that too. But I've always felt in my heart it was the right thing to do, even if I misjudged the situation.

There is always a possibility of losing a friend but often they come back to you once their mind clears and they realize you acted in their best interest. In the unlikely event that it doesn't work out I'd rather lose a friend by anger over the help he needs than to lose him by something more permanent.

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--http://www.idexter.com

[bptoo]

Hi lc,

That's a tough question. I feel that if the person would be a danger to themselves or others by not getting help, then yes, I wouldn't hesitate to step in and get them help. But there are circumstances where you just have to step back and let your loved ones make their own choices. It's a hard thing to do either way.

I guess if it's someone I really love, I follow my heart.

Greg



"Beauty is truth, truth is beauty - that is all you know on earth, and all you need to know"

[armatage]

I would...