(Trigger Warning: Mentions of depression, suicide, and death)
My cousin (m24) came to live with me more than half a year ago. Overall, we have a good relationship. He has dealt with depression and suicide ideation in the past. I've been pretty much the only person he can confide in.
His mental health seemed to improve living away from his parents. They gave him an unfair amount of responsibilities compared to his other siblings. He is glad to be away from that and all the drama that came with it.
But then a few months into living with me, he became depressed again. He stopped taking his daily medication, stopped doing his chores, and indulged in spending too much money online. He started thinking about death again.
I had tried on my end to make sure we have daily interactions and we spend quality time together. It's mostly positive experiences with a few disagreements here and there.
Turns out, he's still dealing with the death of his biological father. His job sucks sometimes. His health isn't great either.
I got him into therapy, reviewed career options, and got him to check up on his health as well. Things aren't perfect, but we're getting to a better place with each step at a time.
My cousin has been with me through my darkest days, so I want to make sure I'm there for him through his as well. Sometimes I feel like I come off too demanding (maybe even annoying) when I'm checking up on him and making sure he's making his appointments, doing his chores, and his finances are in tip-top shape.
If I don't press him on getting things done, he'll just keep on procrastinating. It's almost like watching a child sometimes. I've been in his shoes before, so I'm trying to be as patient as I can. I don't want to stress out over him like I used to. I'm letting him be his own person and he does impress me at times when he gets things done without me reminding him.
The poor guy is emotionally stunted due to demanding parents and being coddled all his life. I'm trying to be a good cousin and guide him to becoming a responsible adult. Because I knew what it was like to be in his shoes and I needed someone to push me. Now I'm thankful for that and I'm trying to do the same with him.
If you have gone through something similar, please share your tips and thoughts. Both perspectives are welcome.