That uneasy feeling from morning to night. Often invisible. Uncertainty amid structure and routine. Overwhelming fear when least expected. Phobias. Obsessions. Panic Attacks. Depression around nearly… Read more “Adoption, Anxiety, Altogether Now”
Category: Parenting Challenges
Provider Fatigue – Yours and Mine
Today my son and I meet with a new mental health provider. I’m not holding my breath. I’m not expecting anything. We’ve both learned from past experience… Read more “Provider Fatigue – Yours and Mine”
I Can’t Make My Child Stop Lying
Like most adults I despise lying. And like most parents, I want my children to tell the truth. Nothing more, nothing less. You – like me –… Read more “I Can’t Make My Child Stop Lying”
Hungry & Insecure: The Bottomless Pit Called Childhood Trauma
Would you like some crackers with the peanut butter? Too late! My son ate the whole jar when no one was looking. Food insecurity. It’s a lasting… Read more “Hungry & Insecure: The Bottomless Pit Called Childhood Trauma”
Truth or Consequences and Trauma
After extensive reading and personal reflection, my 26-year-old incarcerated son Alex shares his thoughts about parent-imposed consequences. His unique perspective from a traumatic past will help you… Read more “Truth or Consequences and Trauma”
Miss Giving of Thanks?
It’s that time of year for many adoptive families. Do you miss the traditional giving of thanks? Or do you have misgivings? Perhaps you have a combination… Read more “Miss Giving of Thanks?”
Adults Bullying Kids in Their Care
Surely my 17-year-old son was mistaken. To retrieve his book bag after school one day, I had to see the principal – and pay $5.00. Off to… Read more “Adults Bullying Kids in Their Care”
Caregiver Stress: It Might Eventually Kill You
The serious look on the eye doctor’s face was obvious. Then she said, “Are you under a lot of stress at work?” Instantly I let out a… Read more “Caregiver Stress: It Might Eventually Kill You”
The Delayed Effect – Parenting Success Years Later
It was the call that every parent welcomes, not the one we dread. My young adult daughter was on the other end. She had made a poor… Read more “The Delayed Effect – Parenting Success Years Later”
The Dog Who Taught Me about Attachment
Late one summer our two Cocker Spaniels both crossed the rainbow bridge. With no time to train a puppy before the start of school, my sons and… Read more “The Dog Who Taught Me about Attachment”