Family Dynamics and Ellen's Struggles

Overview

• The conversation involves multiple family members discussing Ellen's mental health issues.
• There is tension between family members and issues of blame and responsibility.
• Note: Emphasis on not blaming or faulting anyone but focusing on understanding and moving forward.

Family Members Present

• Ellen's Mom
• Ellen's Father (not present; working)
• Kelly (another relative, likely Ellen's sister)
• Multiple mothers of patients
• Judy
• Susan

Key Points Discussed

Ellen's Living Arrangements

• Initially lived with her mom until 18 months ago.
• Moved in with her father to improve their relationship.
• Ellen's father doesn't understand her true nature as an artist.
• Ellen's mother believes she's sensitive and bright, but non-conformist.

Father’s Expectations

• Ellen's father wants her to pursue a stable career (Chinese or computers).
• Ellen is unsure but thinks her father just wants her to be self-sufficient.

Tension Between Parents

• Parents argue about their past relationship and Ellen's upbringing.
• Ellen's father left when she was young.
• Disputes about Ellen's father having an affair and reasons for the parent's divorce.
• Ellen's mother and Susan arguing about who truly cares and understands Ellen.

Ellen’s Mental Health Issues

• Ellen's illness is a severe, ongoing concern for all family members.
• The mother feels helpless and states she's done everything alone.
• Emotional breakdowns occur due to the helplessness and severity of Ellen's condition.

Kelly’s Perspective

• Kelly expresses anger and frustration due to Ellen's illness affecting her life as well.
• Kelly feels she missed out on having a normal sister relationship.
• Friends perceive Ellen negatively, influenced by her illness and possibly her online presence.

Online Influences and Accountability

• Ellen had notoriety on Tumblr; her artwork was linked to negative outcomes.
• A young woman died, prompting Ellen to take down her artwork voluntarily.
• Accusations from Susan about whose fault it was for Ellen's troubled state.

Concluding Moments

• Intense confrontation between Judy and Susan about the reality and consequences of Ellen's situation.
• Discussion ends with a call for understanding Ellen’s illness without placing blame.

Emotional Climate

• The family discussion is charged with emotional intensity, blame, and guilt.
• Multiple emotional breakdowns and confrontations occur.

Focus on Moving Forward

• Emphasis on not blaming but on healing and how to live better moving forward.