So fucking true. And likewise, many mentally ill people - and homeless people - make it really difficult and scary for other people to interact with them, let alone help. Like the saying, "the worst are always the loudest".
There are a ton of worthless social workers and mental health professionals, and I'd bet that a number of them didn't start out that way. But that's a whole other thing of it's own.
I think it's definitely rare to find someone who can remain patient and kind in the face of true mental illness. Even I'm no saint when it comes to that.
Although I actually think I've had it pretty easy (my mother never lashed out on me or was violent toward me in any way) I have a hard time not letting it get to me in a way that affects our relationship. The last time I saw her, a few months ago, she was in right mood before the visit, and it ended with her cussing at me, going off about nonsensical things, and walking away from me. I did not handle it well - I wasn't prepared for it, and it came out of nowhere. I just went home, and despite her apology over the phone, I still can't bring myself to visit her again yet.
I've met some really amazing social workers, but I haven't had much luck with those who work/ed with my mother. Most of her social workers, at one point or another, guilt trip me about the infrequency of our visits. It's so manipulative and ridiculous.
I may not see her more than twice or three times a year (because it's really emotionally trying and upsetting) but I've never been rude, too busy, ignored her calls, or made her empty promises.
Woah rant.
I'm gonna go sleep now.
