Fragile

@Appleblossom

that is alot of stressors Apple, but you got through it and you managed to accomplish things too. im sorry theres so much going on for your son. i really hope he starts to accept help soon too. your doing the very best you can for him and thats enough.

how are you feeling tonight after a rough day?

You are a sweetie and a darling. @outlander

I am concerned that the more and more I get through, the harder it is for my son's self image. It is not my accomplishment or resilience that is the issue.

I wish there was more @Former-Member presence on the forum.

@Appleblossomi know @Former-Member is on tonight if you need some more assitance? is there anything i can help with?

is there anyway to help boost your sons self estemm at all? though im sure youve thought of that too. mental health is hard but im sure he will push through in time and with the right supports too

Thanks @outlander

I noticed @Amor et Psyche just after I posted.

Yes the key issues of shame and self esteem are tricky. It is a complex issue with a complex history.

of course @Appleblossom baby steps

It sounds like a challenging time @Appleblossom, trying to be supportive of your son but not disempower him by doing so; and at the same time finding space to look after yourself.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts about moderator presence. Have you come across @NikNik's post here? She has outlined when moderators will typically respond in a conversation - maybe it's helpful to you, maybe not! I think it will always be a challenge to strike the right balance with having members feel supported by moderators, but at the same time not detract from the peer support which the Forums are all about.

I had read that post before. @Former-Member

I teared up that you responded to my call. Thanks. I have always felt "protective" of the "work" that I imagine the mods do. I certainly do not want to waste anybody's time and have been fairly consistent about that.

There is nothing anybody can do. I just have to sit with it and hope.

here for you and sitting with you @Appleblossom

My turn to jump into your cyber lounge room @Appleblossom. It would be very stressful watching him go through this. I know you have done everything in your power to help him, there is no shame to be had at all. I think it’s one of the hardest things is to watch our kids make their lives much more difficult than they need to be. I’m not in your shoes but can imagine lots of conflicting emotions you might be going through.

Stay strong @Appleblossom. You are amazing in my eyes and whilst I know that ones personal strength can’t be measured I have always admired your strengths and still do. You’ve got this. You have a life to lead for you too.

Just to let you know that fantastic things can be made of just simple stones. 💜🤗

@Appleblossom, I just wanted to add that you have always come across as a very strong, loving and committed mother. It seems that your son is always first, even when there are things are going on for you. I think he's very lucky to have you. I hope you are also saving some of that love and nurture for yourself!