Adult Children of Mentally ill Parents

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Adult Children of Mentally ill Parents
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Re: Re: Re: Re: my mother is also mentally ill - new at this site

Hello all,

I am new to the site too and have been reading the thread. It is so nice to hear of stories like mine.(not nice, but you know waht I mean) I have felt so isolated my whole life, when I tell people of my childhood I just get blank stares, I think out of shock. I was no Sybil, but it was no walk in the park either. I want those here to know that if you are looking at this you are strong enough to accept the reality of your situation, seek help, and are willing to take strides to make a change. That alone makes you a survivor and separates you as an individual with much strength and character.

I have made the choice recently (within a 2 year period) to no longer have contact with either of my mentally ill parents, as my father enables her very schizophrenic behavior. I have chosen to move 2 states away to get away from her, in addition to the other problems she has caused me. I have to say that is has been soo hard but soo rewarding too. I just want everyone out there to know that if I can do it, you can do it, and although sometimes it may feel wrong to leave a mentally ill family member, you sometimes must save yourself!!

Megan

Re: Re: my mother is also mentally ill - new at this site

I have a similar situation with my mother, but fortunately her parents took her in after she had to be hospitalized, so she isn't my responsibility yet. The depression must be awful for her, but it's so much easier to deal with than her manias. I feel a little selfish saying so, but only a little, and I'm guessing a lot of people with bipolar parents understand. I just wanted to tell you, Lisa, that you're very brave and obviously very strong. Since I doubt your mother tells you and you really ought to know -- you're doing a good job. Working hard to keep yourself healthy for your sake and the sake of those around you is all that anyone can ask, and you're doing a lot more than that. Don't be afraid. You already know you won't turn out like her. The most valuable lesson my mother taught me was how and why not to become like her, and that was honestly a really valuable lesson and the one thing I have going for me that no one else in my family had. No one can expect you to take care of your mother forever. You're not her mother, and she's not a child. Anyone who understood what you've gone through for her would be proud of you and impressed.