(((hugs))) It is so hard to walk this path. But there are many of us. You are not alone. It is also true that noone can understand this walk without having been subjected to it themselves. That does not mean there are not people who will empathize with you. It doesn't hurt to seek counseling. Many find comfort in religion. For me it helps to have places like this site or the other site I visit (mothersofinmates.org) to vent. Drop me a message if you need to "chat".

I totally understand. I too want and need to connect with other moms going through this. It can feel so isolating. Know that you are not alone.

My daughter is out on bail after spending 2 months inside for her bad choices. I struggled in those 2 months, lost weight and can understand feeling destroyed. I have tried to keep a lid on our personal life so only a close few know but I feel very alone. We still have her sentencing which could see her go back inside. Most days I still cry, so if you want someone to vent to I can be a good bouncing board . We have to stay strong (apparently) but it is hard (n very scary)

I can relate. My son also 20 and just starting in jail made bad decisions that got him where he is. I wouldn't say he has a learning disability but he is immature for his age. I have younger children as well and feel telling people about my son will completely alter their opinion of him and myself. I have a very small group of close friends that have accepted the situation without judgement, so that is somewhat helpful. But still feel no one really understands my struggle. Which is why I'm here. I'm looking for some one or ones to share similar feelings and get support from those who actually KNOW this pain. I'm not sure how to give support when I'm seeking it out for myself too. I just try to take it day by day. I am constantly asking God for his protection and endurance for my son to make it through each day. I'm new to this site, I don't know exactly how it works. But I would like to connect with like minded people, such as yourself.

Hi sweetheart. His will be one of the deepest heartbreaks you will go through. There is no handbook on how to “get through” but try to trust the process. It’s ok to FEEL it all. It’s ok to cry, hit a pillow , take a run and do whatever you can do to process it in a healthy way. And love the heck out of YOURSELF as you go through this. We are all in this together. I pray for purpose in all of this for you. That somehow your inner strength grows like a deep rooted tree... that your connection as a mother will make your relationship stronger- eve if behind bars for now. There is hope.

I'm right with you my son is the same age he's been in the 2 .5,yes n due to come home next year its stressful and very sad I pray 24hrs a day so my prayers are with you and all the parents on here I feel ur pain I truly know.