Dear Harlan: I have a friend I have known for at least 12 years. He has a very bad problem: He refuses to bathe or take a shower. Over the years, it has been getting worse and worse. The smell is horrific. I have tried to help him with this matter. He will bathe for a couple of weeks, and then he stops again. He is a very good friend and we do everything together, but there is a point where enough is enough, and I am at that point right now. Is there any hope for this matter?
– Disgusted
Dear Disgusted:
It’s like when I diet for a few weeks and lose a few pounds, but gain it all back a few months later. It’s emotional for me. When I overeat, I obsess about overeating in order to avoid focusing on the real issues bothering me. The overeating is just a symptom of a bigger issue. Your friend might have a horrible stench due to a lack of bathing, but the lack of bathing is a symptom of another problem. People who don’t take care of their basic hygiene can be suffering from emotional issues. I’d suggest he visit a therapist or mental-health professional and his doctor. Your friend could be using his smell as a defense mechanism to avoid meaningful interactions.
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