Skip to main content Skip to bottom nav

How do I tell my family that they aren't helping, rather, hurting me in my recovery

Profile: sweetSunshine28
sweetSunshine28 on Dec 7, 2015
...read more
I've tried many things but the most effective is when we are not in the middle of a heated discussion, where my voice isn't raised. when im feeling calm I'm able to convey more emotion.
Struggling with Family Stress?
Find relief with 7 Cups online therapy.
Profile: Greatlistener87
Greatlistener87 on Apr 25, 2016
...read more
Tell them the truth about what is happening, how u feel about it and what they can do to help you make the process easier.
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Jul 4, 2016
...read more
Very Patiently and politely. Expect a little impatience on their end. Anticipate it well in advance. Rather I'd already accepted they would behave in certain way not just while listening but after listening too. One thing is you cannot control anyone's thought process so let them stay the way they are. Your recovery means growing, changing if needed for your growth. So, you're ready to change don't expect them to change too because you're. Gradually they will know. Its okay. You've to be your friend when no one else is. You're the best companion of yourself. Realise it.
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Aug 15, 2016
...read more
What I would suggest is sitting them down and really talking them through your problems. It can be really hard to understand what someone else is going through, so make sure that they get you. If you put yourself in their position you'll find that actually they might be trying to help you they just don't know how
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Dec 27, 2016
...read more
I know that for the most part, our families always want the best for us. They can see when we are pain, and if you ask me, if one individual is suffering, the entire home atmosphere is effected. However, although our family member want to help out, sometimes their actions, even if with the purest intentions, do more good than bad. In a way, when they get a hint that someone in mentally disturbed, they start giving that person more time, or start treating them special, which sometimes may come off as fake or unnecessary in the eyes of the effected individual. Some family members start to blame themselves for everything that happened. These are all natural reactions. Its important to understand that everyone processes grief in a different way and even if we wish to, our families cannot stop caring about us. Most of us choose to distance ourselves from our family when we are going through a tough time. Whatever the reason maybe, I guess the best way to tell them is to acknowledge their support, and earn their trust back that you will be alright on your own. Tell them that you appreciate everything they are doing for you, but you need your own personal space and assure them that if anything goes wrong, or if you need anything, you will let them know. I know its hard to see your family going to distress because of what you are battling through, but please do not blame yourself for this. No matter how hard the road to recovery may seem right now, it will get easier with time. You are doing the best you can and that's all that matters. I hope this helps.
Profile: UntilThen
UntilThen on Jan 9, 2017
...read more
Just say what you need from them. If they can't change to do that then it'll be easier to tell them they're not helping. If you ask them for specific things then you can be clear when they let you down.
Profile: bubblegumBeauty41
bubblegumBeauty41 on May 22, 2018
...read more
Drop subtle hints at first, but if they don't get, then just telling them might be the best way. Easier said than being done, I know, but plan before you tell them so you can plan what you're going to say and rephrase words and think about it, so it's not going to offend them or anything.
Have a helpful insight? Don’t keep it to yourself.
Sharing helps others and its therapeutic for you.
0/150 Minimum Characters
0/75 Minimum Words