Q. I went today to the police station to get help for my daughter who has been gone for a week, she has talked if taking her life almost daily, I was told there was nothing I could do to get her in a rehab and counseling center, she had to go on her own, but I feel that she has given up on life, and death is constantly on her mind, she keeps saying she is a burden, we would be better off if she wasn't around, and has tried to get some one to kill her, I am so scared for her, her husband deserted her and their 2 year old, and left her deep in debt, she is constantly being harassed by collection agencies, she has a man stalking her, I don't know if she has hired him or what, he is a bad character, I keep the baby and she is well taken care of, how do I let my daughter know I love her regardless , she doesn't seem to hear me when I tell her or it doesn't sink in....

 

A. I empathize and sympathize with your situation. On one hand, your absolutely right, there isn't much a parent can do about their adult child who has mental health problems if the adult child does not want to seek help. Only in the case of an emergency situation where you believe s/he is a clear and present danger to him/herself can you intervene via the police to commit her to treatment. Even this may be only for 24 or 48 hours depending on your local mental health law. I encourage you to look into this system and be prepared to act in case of such an emergency. Meanwhile, continue providing her with your love and support. It sounds as if she really needs you to remain as a stable and loving person in her life during this tough time.