One example of setting a healthy boundary is telling a close friend that you prefer they not be around you if they are drunk or high.

Notice that this request is specific and you have to sit down and communicate this type of request explicitly with someone.

Setting a boundary like this is difficult because there is this tendency to hurt other’s feelings. But that is part of what is keeping you sick –caring more about this person’s feelings than your own personal well being.

Setting boundaries is about putting your own personal well being first, and letting that be a guiding example of how to live.

You know you are setting effective boundaries when you are taking back control of your own life and starting to regain your own sanity –instead of being all wrapped up in the problems of another person.