Are you stuck waiting for the “other shoe to drop”?
I know that trying to help a teen or adult child who is struggling with mental illness and/or addiction can be nerve-racking. So many parents spend sleepless nights in fear about where their child may be and what dangers they may be exposed to. This is something that few other parents understand – and this can leave you feeling isolated and misunderstood.
On the other hand, this situation can be so all-consuming that even when your child is in a more stable phase, or making progress, you can’t let go of your fear and apprehension. You are constantly waiting for “the other shoe to drop.”
This back-and-forth experience is exhausting and probably taking a major toll on your sleep, your health, your other relationships, and your sense of well-being. It may also be eroding at some of the emotional resources you need right now, such as having enough patience and belief in yourself that you are doing your best as a parent. And if you have other children who need you, you need to save some of yourself for them.
When you are on the roller coaster of frequent crises and visits to the emergency room, it’s also easy to forget an all-important truth – YOU also need to be well. YOU also need to be healthy. In fact, when you are able to foster a healthier emotional state and life habits for yourself, everybody will benefit, including your child.
I’ve been there myself. I understand it. I’ve lived it, and I now help my clients through this journey. And I want to tell you that there is another way. Learn more here