Problem: Write an article based on this summary: Learn to spot emotional manipulation. Express concern, but set boundaries. Don't give in to demands. Refrain from confronting your parent. Place the responsibility in your parent's hands.

Answer: In some instances, a parent may threaten suicide as a way of frightening you or getting you to do something they want. While such threats should still be taken seriously, you also have to take measures to protect yourself emotionally. You can identify emotional manipulation suicide threats by their tell-tale "If, then" form, although sometimes they may be more subtle. Your parent may make a conditional statement, such as:  "If you leave me here all alone, I will kill myself." "If I can't come live with you, I may as well just die." "If you really love me and want me to stay alive, you wouldn't treat me like this." Convey to your parent that you are sorry they are in pain and that you want to help, but you will not be controlled or manipulated by threats. Do this in a gentle and non-assuming way, and actually follow up on your words and call for professional assistance. For example, say "Mom, I love you so much and I definitely don't want you to hurt yourself, but you can't come to live with me right now. I will do what I can to make sure you get the help you need." Such a statement shows compassion, but sets boundaries of what you will and won't do. No matter what your parent threatens, avoid trying to prove yourself or give in to the manipulation. Doing so will only jump start a repetitive cycle of your parent tossing around threats whenever things are not going his way.  Stand firm in your boundaries. And, remember, even if you were to give in this one time, it wouldn't resolve the underlying emotional problem that prompted them to threaten suicide in the first place. Let your parent know that you are concerned for his safety, thus when they threaten suicide you will take them seriously and call the emergency services so they can receive the proper treatment. Setting this boundary releases you from manipulation while ensuring your parent remains safe. Try your best to prevent any fighting or confrontations. There is no need to tell your parent that you know they are manipulating you. This may only worsen the situation and deter you from reaching a solution. A power struggle may result in your parent attempting a suicide simply to show you he or she was serious. Once you identify emotional manipulation hiding behind these suicidal threats, consult with a therapist for your parent and yourself. With the guidance of a professional, you may be able to express your feelings about being manipulated in a safe environment without fearing your parent will attempt suicide. Remember, no matter how much you love, care for, or pray for your parent, you cannot keep them alive — only your parent can do that. It is unfair for your parent to place such a burden (i.e. whether they live or die) in your hands. Clearly state your concerns, but continue to stand behind your boundaries: "Dad, it hurts me to hear you say you want to kill yourself. But, no matter what I say or do, that decision lies with you. I can't stop you from harming yourself, but I do want you to get the appropriate help."


Problem: Write an article based on this summary: Look for drought and heat-tolerant plants. Buy plants native to your area. Choose ornamental trees and shrubs. Shy away from large-leaf plants.

Answer: The potentially intense wind and sunlight will make stronger plants a better candidate for rooftop gardens. Seedlings with these qualities will be more likely to survive the first year. Add shade or windbreakers if you plan to add more fragile plants.  Ornamental grasses, honeysuckles, and magnolias all do well in hot, sunny weather. Make sure you regularly water your plants, even those that are drought-resistant. Plants originating from your state or climate will attract native fauna, like birds and butterflies. They will also adapt more easily to your garden than non-native plants. If harsh winds or heat hits, your plants will be much more likely to survive.  Decorate the garden with bird- or butterfly feeders to attract more animals. Ask your local nursery which plants are native to your area for your options. Large plants will weigh down your roof and leave less room for other decor. Small, ornamental trees and shrubs do well in rooftop gardens when protected with windbreakers and placed in stable containers. Add 2 to 4 trees or shrubs at most to conserve space.  Trim your trees' roots every few years to keep them at a manageable size. Examples of ornamental trees and shrubs include: Dogwood, Japanese Lilac Tree, Crabapple, Star Magnolia, and Jack Dwarf Flowering Pear. Plants with large, supple leaves tend to get shredded by the high winds on rooftop gardens. They are also more likely to suffer winter-burn during the colder seasons. Smaller-leaved plants or pines thrive particularly well on rooftops.


Problem: Write an article based on this summary: Take a power nap. Have a regular bedtime and a healthy diet. Focus your mental powers. Call someone.

Answer:
If you have the time, sleeping for just 15-20 minutes can increase your alertness by leaps and bounds if you have a cup of coffee (or any other form of caffeine) right before you fall asleep. The caffeine will take about 20 minutes to begin working, so you shouldn't have any trouble falling asleep right away, and you'll wake up refreshed. Sleeping just 20 minutes helps activate the right hemisphere of the brain, which is responsible for processing and storing acquired information. Brains benefit greatly from schedules. If you go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even the weekends, your brain know when it's time to sleep and fall into a pattern. Getting proper nutrition will also ensure that your body has the proper energy throughout the day without having to resort to naps for extra strength.  How much should you sleep to ensure that you're properly rested? Adults need anywhere from 7-9 hours of sleep per night. If you are pregnant or older, you may need even more sleep, anywhere from 10-11 hours. Some recommend going to sleep with your curtains halfway open. The early morning sunlight will send signals to your body to slow production of melatonin and start production of adrenaline, making it easier to wake up. It sounds hard, but don't let your mind go into the "fuzzy stage." When your mind starts to go blank, think about something, whether it's a joke, a movie, or anything else to keep your mind working. Even thinking about something that makes you mad can be extremely helpful. Unless they're drinking, you typically don't see an angry person abruptly fall asleep. Make a call to a friend or a cousin or anyone who makes you laugh. A light conversation will definitely refresh your mind and you will be ready to start working before you know. Take a stroll while talking on the phone. It will keep you active. People tend to converse more animatedly when they walk and talk.