Watch on YouTube:
When Your Family Doesn't Get It
Welcome to another episode in our bonus series, Behind the Sessions. A topic that comes up frequently with my clients is how they are impacted in therapy when their family doesn’t get it and does not understand what is happening for them. This disconnect can even go as far as families judging or blaming the person for what they are experiencing. It’s a difficult topic that can leave people feeling isolated and very much alone.
While I am primarily addressing the emotional pain and struggle of moms in the perinatal and postpartum times, this message can apply to those in other phases of life, as well. There is no intention here for family-bashing, but the message is that we can all do better in supporting those who are facing real challenges, and it most often begins with a compassionate listening ear. Join me for this bonus episode.
Show Highlights:
How a suffering person faces blame from family members who can’t/won’t be supportive and ends up feeling alone, isolated, sad, and even gaslit
Feelings can coexist: you can BOTH love your kid AND need a break
What happens over time when someone isn’t supported and validated
How family members respond by blaming, shaming, or going into “fix mode”
Why a suffering person has to understand that asking for help and talking about their emotions is not “complaining”
How healing begins when one can acknowledge and accept their experience without minimizing it
Helpful tips on engaging in conversation with a family member to get the support you need
Resources:
Postpartum Support International: https://www.postpartum.net/
Tools, Skills and Hacks for New Moms
Manage thoughts & feelings of overwhelm
Learn how breathing & grounding help reach calmness
Exercises to find peace
