160

[beccyjoe]

Just wanted to shout out to the amazing woman on episode 160, raising the daughter with intense mental health problems that cause such challenging behaviour. BLESS YOUR HEART!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Joyfulme]

Thank you, beccyjoe! I appreciate your support!!

[nearski]

Thanks for sharing Joy. I just recently discovered the podcast and have been listening to learn more about depression. Both my son and daughter have been diagnosed with depression and I am needing to learn new ways to communicate, parent, and partner with them. I appreciated hearing about your dedication and hope as a parent.

[Joyfulme]

Nearski...sending you love and (((hugs))). Know you're not alone. Remember that knowledge and therapy are your friend. Wishing you the best!!

[beccyjoe]

You're welcome, Joy, I loved every minute of listening to your story. I was completely impressed and inspired by your strength and DEVOTION to giving this girl the best you possibly could. Especially given that she was not your biological daughter, not even your partner's biological daughter, but his adopted daughter. Not that it *should* make a difference, but it would be so much easier to feel resentful if it wasn't your biological child, I imagine, at least. But your complete lack of a "why should I have to do this?" attitude was just so gracious and definitely suggested that you are an exceptional person . That selfless unconditional love for another person who doesn't make life easy is rare.

Also your story reminded me of this story - http://www.thisamericanlife.org/radio-a ... act=1#play - about a couple who adopt a severely disturbed child and have massive struggles with attachment issues, but are persistent in the face of total adversity, and have an amazing outcome in the end. It's also an incredible story, I'd recommend it - though I'm sure you're a busy mum etc so you might not have time to listen. all the best for you and your family! x beccy