hypertension

[domestic goddess]

I just found out that my 25 year old niece has been put on antihypertensives. That is just way too young to be on medication for something like that. Of course, she eats a diet almost exclusively of fast food and restaurant meals. I don't think that there is a vegetable that she will eat. Although she isn't overweight, I really think that diet has taken its toll on her health. I think she has been lucky, though; she felt bad and had a headache. When my blood pressure was over 200 systolic, I never had a clue. Not a symptom or headache.
Of course, she feels bad constantly. You just can't eat a diet like that and really thrive. I don't know what she will do about diet, but I can't see her making any real changes in that area. I've made suggestions, but I really don't see her starting to cook any time soon.

[Mrs-M]

So sad... Do remember, Domestic Goddess, that we all are provided with a general sense of good versus evil, for better or for worse, and, should I or shouldn't I, completeness, and although it's human nature to always want to be there for others and to intervene and help when at all possible, sadly, reality speaks.

I would express to her the magnitude and severity of her condition (from a professional side/stance related to the formal education and experience you have lived and achieved), and reiterate to her the ramifications of her failing to regain control of her life. As for all else, she is the sole creator of her own destiny, and until such a time she makes a contentious effort to correct and alter her ways, there isn't much you or anyone can do to help.