Dear WDMPAD~
Please excuse the abbreviation. I regret it has taken so long this time to get a second response. Sophie_M has greeted you and given you a couple of of good links, however since then there has been silence.
This is not you, it is not the subject of your post - which is important and deserves an answer, it is simply the system which does not always work as we would want -sigh
OK as Sophie says your friend is lucky to have you there for her, and I'm sure you have tied every way you can to make her feel better. As this does not seem to have worked all that well I rather think the effect that has on you is something to take into account.
Do you know if your friend has medical support, if not then maybe convincing her to try might be the best thing you can do, rather than giving verbal support. I never improved until I has competent medical care.
From what you say it would seem this is not mutual support with your freind, and if you turn the conversation to your needs things do not work properly. That's OK in the very short term but can harm you if it goes on.
The phrase the supporter needs support is true. Without it constant lack of success can lead one along a downward path. So may I ask you what support you have over this? Do you see a doctor, talk with your family or others and get encouragement and care? Trying to cope in isolation is very hard.
Another thing to consider is you may be trying too hard, and maybe concentrating on your friend's condition. Do you think things would go smoother and still give both of you a lift if you simply did things you enjoy together -maybe go to the movies or some other entertainment?
I'd like it if you came back and said more - you will be answered much quicker next time:)
Croix
