Depression Support Group

Depression is a real and debilitating condition that is often misunderstood by family and friends. Its meaning can range from a prolonged period of sadness to an actual mental illness with specific symptoms. Find and share experiences with others who are going through the same struggles.

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mothers and fathers

depressiontini
depressiontini
I don't have much of a relationship with either of my parents. My father is a toxic man who has proven over the years that he is violent and unwilling to change. My mother stands by her man. They are both toxic and I am better off without them. Having two siblings, it sure does make the holidays difficult.

Does anyone else feel parent-less?
deleted_user
deleted_user
Yes- my mother died a few years ago, and she was (despite her faults and her alcoholism) such a great friend as I got older. She was selfless in her actions and made great strides to keep our small family connected. My sister and father (incl brother in law, niece, nephew, and step-mom) are all now, very distant from me. There is little chance of bridging the gap (emotionally), and I feel that every year that passes, is just making the chance more unlikely. I have tried to gain their support, and they just seem resentful that I am so far from them (as I moved away from home many years ago).

If you are close to your siblings, or still have the chance....please try to resolve any issues, or at least let them know that you care about them and are there for them. Best of luck to you.
depressiontini
depressiontini
Thanks for sharing and I'm sorry about your mother's passing.

I am close to my siblings. We try to be there for each other - since we all struggle with depression and definitely have issues with the parents. My sister is the closest to them because she has kids and wants them to know their grandparents. The kids seem to love my toxic dad - he is different with them. I think my mom loves the kids - when they're behaving. I am very close to my brother. He has always been in my corner.

Despite the toxicity of my dad and the compliance of my mother, we sibs have been close and most definitely there for each other through the years. It is rough, because I don't get to see them if they are sharing a holiday with the parents.

I have tried for years to mend things with my dad, but I need to protect myself from him. The only way to do this is to pretty much keep him out of my life.

I feel guilty that I have parents who are alive and I don't want to be in their lives - I feel like a "bad" daughter - even though I would have to say my dad being violent and emotionally abusive over the years is mainly why I stay away.

It's hard. Especially around the holidays. And now that I'm getting married - and my dad is not invited (a good thing) but my mom most likely won't come without him....