"I can't talk with my friends or family because they just don't understand."  Family and friends mean well. They want to help. They may even ask, "What can I do for you?"

Parenting a child with special needs can be very lonely and frequently moms feel isolated.  The transition to motherhood is difficult enough without having to learn new medical terms,  the difference between occupational and physical therapy and allowing strangers into your home to work with your child.

You want to talk with someone and tell them all about your fears, how frightening is was when your baby was born and rushed off to  the NICU. Some people tell you, "You have so much to be thankful and happy about",  "You just need more
sleep " or everything will be ok." These comments, while well meaning, typically are not helpful or supportive.

If you could have a friend or family member say anything to you that would help you feel understood, what would that be?

Cathy