Parenting is rarely easy, adn when mental health issues are thrown into the mix, it can become an incredibly daunting challenge, especially when those issues involve a child.
One mother of five, Megan, who shares her family life on TikTok (@meggles2446), knows this struggle all too well. She made the heartbreaking decision to prioritize the safety of four of her children by having her 11-year-old daughter, Briley, live with her grandmother.
In an open and vulnerable TikTok video, Megan explained, “My 11-year-old daughter is currently not in a place where she can safely be around my other kids, or even remain in our home.” Her voice trembled with emotion as she continued, “The depth of my love for her is immeasurable, and I yearn for her to be with me.However, for the well-being of my other children, I had to make this incredibly challenging choice.
Viewers, naturally curious about the situation, prompted Megan to share more details in subsequent videos. She bravely divulged Briley’s diagnoses, which included disruptive dysregulation mood disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, reactive attachment disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and impulse control disorder.
Addressing concerns about using the term “kicked out,” Megan admitted, “Perhaps my phrasing wasn’t the most sensitive. I wont to reiterate that I love my child immensely, and I’m actively involved in her life.”
She elaborated on the reason behind her decision, explaining, “Child protective services determined that Briley poses a risk to my other children, and if I didn’t find a safe alternative living arrangement, it would be considered a failure to protect them. I have a obligation to ensure the safety of all my children.”
Megan’s TikTok account is a tapestry woven with stories about her family, particularly Briley.
She recounts Briley’s infancy, a time marked by constant crying that led to eviction from their apartment. Sleep evaded Briley until the age of five when medication provided relief. Sadly, by six, Briley’s struggles escalated, leading to inpatient treatment for aggression towards peers, siblings, and even teachers.
Pregnancy with her youngest son proved to be another difficult chapter. Megan shared,”Briley’s behavior towards me was incredibly abusive during that time. She threw books at my stomach, struck me, and kicked me while pregnant.”
After an incident involving briley hurting her siblings and cousins, requiring police intervention, the arrangement with her grandmother became more permanent.
It’s easy to judge Megan and question her ability to handle her daughter – a sentiment echoed by many commenters. However, judging a mother struggling with a child’s complex mental health needs is unfair. Megan remains devoted, speaking to Briley daily and visiting frequently.”Maybe I haven’t been the parent Briley needed,” she acknowledges, “but I’m still present and still striving to do my best for her.”
Christine Walker, another mother who made the painful decision to send her son to a residential treatment center for his mental health struggles, offers a powerful viewpoint. She states, “If Schuyler had cancer, I wouldn’t hesitate to seek specialized treatment. This is a brain disorder, and I’m not giving up on him.”
Megan’s story highlights the importance of understanding mental illness as a serious health concern. It demands compassion and support, not judgment. By sharing her experience, Megan sheds light on the often-invisible struggles faced by families grappling with these complex issues.
What are some common mental health issues that parents face when raising children?
Interview with Dr. Emily Hartman: Understanding the Challenges of Parenting with Mental Health Issues
Time.news Editor: Today, we’re joined by Dr.Emily Hartman, a clinical psychologist specializing in child mental health, to discuss a poignant story that has emerged from the TikTok community regarding parenting challenges. Recently,a mother named Megan shared her heart-wrenching experience of having to prioritize the safety of her other children by having her 11-year-old daughter,Briley,live with her grandmother due to important mental health struggles. Welcome, Dr. hartman.
Dr. Hartman: Thank you for having me.
Time.news Editor: Megan’s decision to have Briley live with her grandmother has sparked discussions on various platforms.What are your thoughts on her situation, and can you elaborate on the complexities parents face when dealing with children with significant mental health issues?
Dr. Hartman: Megan’s situation is unfortunately not uncommon. Parents ofen find themselves in heart-wrenching positions when thier child’s mental health affects the safety and well-being of the entire family. Conditions like the ones Briley faces,including disruptive mood dysregulation and oppositional defiant disorder,can manifest in ways that are terrifying both for the child and the family unit.It’s crucial to understand that this isn’t a failure of parenting, but rather the manifestation of complex mental health conditions that require specialized support.
Time.news Editor: megan mentioned that she had to make this decision for the safety of her other children, citing Child Protective Services’ involvement. How should parents navigate these tough choices while maintaining family cohesion?
Dr. Hartman: It’s essential for parents to prioritize the safety of all children involved, just as Megan did. However, maintaining family connections is also vital. Open dialogue is key. In situations where a child’s behavior poses risks, parents should actively explain their decisions in a way that the other children can understand, fostering an environment of empathy and mutual support. This transparency can definitely help everyone involved process the situation better.
Time.news Editor: Megan bravely opened up about her daughter’s history, including severe behaviors during her pregnancy. What advice would you give to parents facing similar situations in their parenting journey?
Dr. Hartman: Parents must recognize that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness. Connecting with mental health professionals early can provide strategies for both the child and the family. Additionally, support groups can be incredibly beneficial, allowing parents to share their experiences and learn from others in similar situations.
Time.news Editor: Megan expressed feelings of guilt, stating, “Maybe I haven’t been the parent Briley needed.” How can parents mitigate feelings of guilt while prioritizing their children’s mental health?
Dr. Hartman: it’s quite common for parents to experience guilt, especially when faced with tough decisions involving their children’s care. One way to combat this is through self-compassion. Parents should remind themselves that they are doing the best they can given the circumstances. Counseling or therapy can also provide support to help parents process their emotions. Remember,prioritizing a child’s safety can,at times,mean making heart-wrenching decisions,but it doesn’t diminish their love and commitment to that child.
Time.news Editor: Stories like Megan’s highlight the importance of viewing mental health struggles with empathy. How can society better support families navigating these complex circumstances?
Dr. Hartman: Society can play a critical role by shifting the narrative around mental health. We need to foster understanding and compassion rather than stigma. Initiating conversations in schools, workplaces, and community settings can help validate the experiences of families facing these challenges. Access to mental health resources, educational programs, and community support networks can also equip families with the tools and understanding they need.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Hartman, for sharing your insights today. Your expertise sheds light on the intricacies of parenting a child with mental health challenges and emphasizes the necessity of compassion in these circumstances.
Dr. Hartman: It’s my pleasure, and I hope Megan’s story encourages more open dialogues and support for families experiencing similar journeys.
Time.news Editor: For those interested in this topic, we encourage you to share experiences, seek help when needed, and engage with mental health resources available in your community.