What if your child grows up to do the unthinkable?

Here’s a summary of this article I contributed to. Read the full article on Business Insider.

Parents often struggle with losing control over their child’s actions, whether it’s substance abuse, mental health issues, or more severe behaviors.

• Experiencing remorse, guilt, and confusion, many parents wrestle with feelings of helplessness and self-blame, questioning if they could have done more.

• Loneliness, isolation, and hidden struggles in children can escalate unnoticed, highlighting the importance of early intervention.

• While empathy and open communication are key, they don’t always prevent harmful outcomes, leaving parents feeling powerless.

• Therapy and involving third parties, like licensed professionals, can help parents manage their emotional challenges and support their children better.

• Recovery often requires self-compassion and acceptance, focusing on separating a parent’s identity from their child’s actions.

• Even when parents try their best, the limits of control can be devastating, making grief and healing a lifelong journey.