Supporting my brother to grow up healthily

one_step_closer · 21-11-2008, 10:12 AM

My younger brother is the most important person in my life, he's 17 now and I really want to make sure that he grows up to be safe, happy and healthily. Our Mum died 7 years ago and our Dad is 90 so he doesn't really have proper parental support. I'm worried that because of this and the fact that I have mental health problems that he won't have the right support and he might learn unhealthy ways of coping with things. What is it that I have to teach him? How can I stop him from falling into the same hole that I have, or falling into any hole? He is able to talk to me when things are difficult and he has a lot of friends and a few close friends.

I just don't know what i'm supposed to be doing, as i'm not his parent.

Prestige · 21-11-2008, 10:21 AM

Im not a parent either but just wanted to say that what you are doing is a great thing. I dont think you actually have to DO anything more than what you already are- just being there should be enough, working through problems together. At 17 its not like he is a child and the worst thing you can do is smother him, let him grow, but be there for him when things arent going so well and look after yourself too :)

littlelou · 21-11-2008, 10:35 AM

i agree just be there from him when he needs you to listen. its kind of a hard thing to do but you'll have to let him make mistakes and his own choices and just be there for whatever happens.

youngatheart · 21-11-2008, 02:17 PM

you are doing exactly the right thing by offering support when he needs it and its great that he can talk to you and has friends around him.

Margo · 21-11-2008, 02:50 PM

You just keep being his sister. Letting him know the door is open and you are there to listen and support. He is your brother and thats all you want from him too. Just for him to be that.

Its a hard situation. Its lovely you feel that way towards him. I wish i had someone like you in my family.

Matthew xxx