How do I even begin to repair my relationships with my children after all that I've put them through?
Due to postnatal depression/anxiety that wasn't treated soon enough, I unfortunately turned to alcohol to deal with my absolutely shocking mental health.
This initially happened when my 3rd child was born 15 years ago.
Even though I never physically or mentally abused them, I was a drunk mum on and off, and that was detrimental to them all at their young ages.
Fast forward to now, I've been completely sober 6 months, and wow I feel absolutely awful for all that I put my kids through.
I know it's just going to take time and effort to prove that I've changed my ways, but is there anything else I can do for my 3 teenage children?
I've sat down with them all one on one, and apologised for my past behaviour, and explained it was never their fault, it was all mine.
Even though they still talk to me, see me, love me (I'm not with their dad anymore either), I still feel like this is irreparable 100%.
I'm doing all that I can to be a better mum now, I'm medicated, I'm seeing a psychologist, GP, and having alcohol counselling.
What I would do to go back 15 years and change it all.
This is a place where women from different backgrounds, cultures and beliefs come together to support one another judgement free.
2 Replies
Keep doing what your doing!
Be consistent Be considerate and be present. They will in time see that you are changing and evolving. There is no quick fix - slow burn. You got this mumma
I carried mummy guilt too. Just for different reasons. I checked out mentally and emotionally due to trauma. I had to acknowledge there wasn't anything I could do to change the past. I also had to learn to forgive myself as I was just trying to survive. I think you need to do this too.. the guilt will not serve you. In fact it may drive your progress backwards. Whenever you find yourself ruminating on the past, remind yourself of how far you have come now. Be present for your kids now and consistently over time. Look forward to the future <3 You were strong enough to break out of a horrible place and do better for your children, some people never do. That deserves some kind of recognition. It's not only time to be kinder to your children, it's time to be kinder to yourself as well <3