When I was in my late teens and early twenties, my mother used me as a counselor over her marital woes with my father. Sheโd unload on me about my dadโs workaholism, his neglect of her, and her concerns he was having an affair. She always complimented me on my terrific listening skills and wise advice. This made me feel extremely special and important, and I ate it up! She often mentioned that she would divorce my dad one day and she and I would live together. She never did.
After listening to you, I see how acting as my motherโs therapist stunted my growth and was actually abusive. It was easier for me to hear her problems than start an adult life of my own. It also harmed my relationship with my father, because I saw him as the bad guy, and he saw me as my motherโs confidant. Much later, I realized he was a good and honorable man who had to put up with too much garbage from my mom.
In my late thirties, my son was diagnosed with autism, and I fell apart. When I needed my mom to be a good listener, she did a disappearing act that would have impressed the best magician! She made it abundantly clear she didnโt want to hear MY story. Because Iโd been overly close to her, I hadnโt developed many friendships. Thank goodness I had the greatest of husbands to talk to, and weโve set a positive plan for the future that doesnโt include my mom.
Nancy
My Mother Used Me as Her Therapist
The Dr. Laura Call of the Day Podcast