My [43F] niece [29F] is obsessed with Harry Potter. I feel like she needs help and am not sure how to get it for her.

If it doesn't affect her work life and she's happy, what's the issue? How I see it is she's almost 30 and seems to be doing well for herself. Yes, she's being extremely childish and while it could be mental, you also don't have every detail about her life (and because you didn't say so, I'm assuming you don't have the degree) to really diagnose her. Her online friends are who she likes, there's nothing wrong with online friends. She asks for Harry Potter gifts because that's what she wants. She jokes with you about this because she's comfortable with you. She doesn't dress as a witch at work or out in public much, if at all unless she's home it sounds like. Honestly, she's probably a bit of a loner, maybe even a "loser," but she's doing better than some 30 yr olds that are jobless, friendless and living in their parents basement. And if her parents aren't concerned I'm not sure why you think stepping in would be a good idea. You're more likely to alienate and upset your niece and probably her mom. And if the dad agrees with you it could turn niece against him, too. If you want to say something to niece, that's your prerogative, but understand that she would have every right to be upset with you judging her lifestyle. Don't get upset with her if she finds your helpful advice or words to be harsh and that she stops feeling comfortable being open with you.

/r/relationships Thread