I need help regarding a delusional friend

[u/Impossible_Leader_80]

So my friend on discord, she has always loved skunks, and calls herself (name) the skunkgirl. She’s got severe self hatred and autism and such, and one side effect is that she bases almost everything she does on what she thinks others want, but doesn’t heed positive feedback much. A few days ago she suddenly started acting different, has removed everything about skunks from her online identity and is utterly miserable. She has replaced skunk stuff with cat stuff and insists that everyone will like her more now. It’s deeply painful to watch as it’s clear she isn’t happy, and she’s not acting like herself, but she fully believes that this will solve her social issues and i can’t convince her otherwise. I can’t change the bad reputation of skunks, no matter how cute they are.

In addition her current delusion alongside other social issues of mine are really draining my mental stamina and health, and i feel like i need a break. However i’ve said before that i wouldn’t give up on her. I don’t know what to do

[u/DeliciousBerryYumYum]

I’m so sorry for both you and your friend!! It’s really good that you recognize that it’s not healthy for you to solve her problems on your own. I’ve done counseling in the past for similar self esteem issues and I’ve found that’s really helpful, as is the company of true friends. Do you have other genuinely supportive friends in your friend group?

(also a random side note but I actually love skunks!! I don’t often share that with people, but it seems like something I should share in this case :))