I think that we do the best we can on any given day. It helps me to remember that however that person is acting out, be it in anger or otherwise, it is about them, not me. Once I take me out of the equation, it gets a little easier for me to see it objectively. I think it is important to convey a consistent message of recovery to such a person, so that they will be reminded that there is always hope, and that they are not alone unless they choose to be.
I would suggest, if they have not already started this process, that they get and work with a sponsor, so that they can dig into those deep issues that are causing the pain in the first place.
