The Scottish Mail on Sunday - You
MY BROTHER IS SUICIDAL
My twin brother and I have always been extremely close. We are in our 30s and we live together. I work in education and he helps run the family business. He has always suffered from mental health problems and has self-harmed. Since his relationship with his emotionally abusive partner ended last year, these problems have spiralled out of control. He blames himself and it has decimated his self-worth. He is suicidal and has been hospitalised for his own safety, but was not sectioned. He is seeing a psychologist, but he is not open with him. My partner has been a saint, and without him I would be lost. However, he lives and works in another city. I had planned to join him, but my brother’s health has meant that I can’t. My father has left the UK for an extended holiday and my brother is struggling to cope with running the business without him. My mother and stepfather have contributed a huge amount financially to my brother’s care. I love my partner with all my heart and fear that if I don’t make plans to move in with him soon, he will end the relationship. I am completely torn.