Dealing with an ex who has bi polar and narcissism

[CT78]

Hi. My ex husband has bi polar and narcissism. We have a 12 year old together. His behaviour is erratic and aggressive at best. His behaviour towards our child changes drastically from loving father to telling our child they are ungrateful and he never wants to see them back to demanding they spend time with him. Has anyone else been through a similar situation and what did you do to cope with it? Child is currently refusing to see him. A parenting order is in place which gives him access every 2nd weekend. I cannot physically force our child to go. I'm at a loss as what to do.

[tyme]

Hey @CT78 ,

I absolutely hear you and I've worked with families who experience something similar. It's not easy on anyone.

In some instances, an external person works with the child e.g. counsellor. 

Other times, they just don't go.

Have you spoken to a professional about what you are going through? 

This Family Relationships advice line may be helpful for you to know what you can/can't do:

https://www.familyrelationships.gov.au/talk-someone/advice-line

We look forward to hearing how you go.

Please look after yourself.

[defaultusername]

Hi @CT78,

Welcome to the Forum and thank you for sharing. I hope that you are made to feel welcome and supported by this all the lovely people here.

I can only imagine how stressful this situation must make you and your child feel. I think @tyme's advice is really good, particularly speaking to a professional about the situation by contacting the Family Relationships Advice Line to see how they can support you.

Here are also some resources that may be of some use to you:

- https://interrelate.org.au/separation-support/children-contact-service/ 
- https://www.familylife.com.au/support/separation/ 

I hope that you and your child find the support that you are looking for.

Take care.

[tyme]

Hey @CT78 ,

How are you travelling? What's been happening for you?