LibraryScenariosWhy setting boundaries with struggling siblings feels like betrayal
Scenario

Why setting boundaries with struggling siblings feels like betrayal

My brother has been struggling with addiction for five years and I'm tired of hearing about his relapses but I feel guilty for wanting to distance myself.

Juana
Online
The coach is replying

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

Self-preservation instincts can conflict with family loyalty when a sibling's problems become chronically consuming.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Sibling identity dynamics?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.