Dear Vowel Lady,

the way i understand your description, it doesn't fit clearly with bipolar. While many bipolars may have this issue, many non-bipolars do also.

i agree a therapist would be a good idea if the young woman concerned is herself concerned about this. a person with self-esteem issues, or a dependent type personality is likely to have this kind of problem.

i could see a possible relation to a bipolar episode ONLY if this is not a constant behavior for her, especially if it happens only when she is clearly depressed. in depression, one's sense of worth could potentially be eroded to the point of fearing to stand up for themselves even against their better judgment.

with mania, people sometimes engage in dangerous behaviors, but usually it has to do with elevated impulsivity, lowered inhibitions, or impaired judgment. a manic person generally is more likely to have an inflated sense of worth and is less likely to go along with others - unless the activities presented sound attractive to them, at least in the moment. it does not sound like this is the case.

i think Mari and Beth make important points about your relative's adulthood and whether she considers this a problem. on the other hand, i also appreciate that even once a person is "legally" an adult, if family members see clear ways in which they are undermining themselves, then it only makes sense to try to help them, just as a good friend would do.

sending you all good wishes.

~ waves ~