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[quote=Anonymous]Mirroring is a highly effective strategy when you're having a disagreement with someone.  You use mirroring to show you've heard what the other person has said.  However mirroring is not really that effective for someone you're describing, OP.

A PP gave some example statements to use for establishing boundaries to help keep you healthy.  The first statement is a good one and provides a re-direction for your sister -- After her third rant say “Okay that’s three negatives.  Now come up with a positive because this whole conversation can’t be a downer.”   I suggest modifying the second one a smidge to provide your boundary --  “I know I’m a good person to vent to, but it is upsetting to me when you have nothing good to say.  Let's change the subject to something I choose and we both will say something positive about it."

Neither is going to work permanently but they will be good for extending the conversation so that you are 1) satisfying your need to maintain contact and support, and 2) building a bridge for your future relationship should she ever become more mentally healthy.

You may want to reach out to your sister's therapist/s and ask for their guidance.  Your sister will have to agree that you can speak with the therapist so you will have to figure out how to approach that hurdle.  And set some time limits for your interactions so that one interaction isn't so overwhelming.[/quote]

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