To those who may not understand:
To those who have never experienced the confines of a locked mental health facility for adolescents.
To those who have never faced the painful reality of being physically harmed by their own child—someone they’ve devoted every ounce of their love and energy to.
To those who casually offer parenting advice, suggesting that if they were in your shoes, they would involve law enforcement, child protective services, or even consider institutionalization.
To those who believe that mental health issues are merely a byproduct of poor parenting, insisting that stricter discipline could resolve everything.
To those who cannot fathom the frustration of waiting in an emergency room for days, hoping for a psychiatric bed to become available, only to be let down by yet another failed treatment option for their child.
To those fortunate enough to remain oblivious to the mental health crisis plaguing our society, unaware of the years-long waitlists for qualified professionals in a field that is both demanding and underpaid.
This message is for you, the parents and caregivers who have tried every conceivable solution yet still feel stuck.
This is for the parents who dread another emergency room visit, the endless waiting, and the ongoing cycle that leads nowhere.
This is for those who understand the need to protect their other children, both physically and emotionally, from the challenges posed by a sibling’s mental health issues.
This is for the parents who are adept negotiators and master multitaskers, whose bodies are in a constant state of vigilance.
This is for the parent who has had to pull over because of a heated conversation, who has nearly caused an accident while lost in thought about the previous night’s events.
This is for the parent who feels overwhelmed and exhausted but knows they must keep going.
This is for those who often miss work, struggle to focus, and juggle a multitude of responsibilities—all while carrying the heavy weight of fear and heartache for their child.
This letter is for you. You are not alone, no matter how isolating it may feel. You are acknowledged.
There is a community of caregivers who see you, who understand your struggle. Mental health challenges do not discriminate; they can affect anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Mental illness can be found in the most affluent neighborhoods, in the homes of professionals from all walks of life—doctors, teachers, community leaders, and devoted parents alike.
To those who judge without understanding: If you’ve been fortunate enough to avoid these struggles, please keep your opinions to yourself.
For the parents facing these challenges, know that you are recognized. While I cannot promise you that everything will be okay, I can assure you that you are not alone.
You. Are. Not. Alone.
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