Posted by All Done on January 19, 2004, at 21:50:19
In reply to About moms, posted by Ilene on January 19, 2004, at 13:52:49
> I think my psychiatric problems are genetic, coming from my mother's side of the family. She may or may not have been clinically depressed, but she certainly had an anxiety disorder. She was emotionally abused by her mother, too. I don't think she had much insight into herself.
>
> My mother was extremely critical, and I was (am) extremely sensitive to criticism. A bad combination.
>
> I try to do the best I can with my kids, but I don't act like "normal" people. I think I'm doing a better job than my mom did with me, but my depression, anxiety, chronic fatique, and other problems make it impossible for me to be like other moms.
>
> Coming back to your post--your mother may not be aware of the effect her behavior has on other people, or she may not be in enough control of her own behavior to stop herself from saying hurtful things. It might be easier to distance yourself from her if you consider those things.
>
> Ilene
>I can totally relate. Sorry if I'm repeating myself a bit, but I'm not sure who reads what. I told my mom that in order to get any relationship back with me and my family, she needs to see a therapist. I really believe she is suffering from depression and possibly more. I too believe that my mental health has been "handed down" to me from her and I worry (actually, obsess is a better word) about being just like her. I worry about my son, but at least I know I will always be open and honest with him. It feels strange putting myself first, but all I know is that I have to take care of myself in order to be able to take care of my son.
Thanks for sharing your story with me.
poster:All Done
thread:302766
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20040109/msgs/302970.html