I know this all too well. Im young, only 27. I supported myself from 16 up until I was about 24. and then I got really sick. I was on alot of drugs(illegal), my fam still doesnt know and wont ever know if i can help it. But i was still supporting myself working 6 days a week. And then I OD'd on ecstacy, and it started a domino effect of triggering all of my mental health issues, which are many. Still, i struggled to support myself or at least go on welfare, rather than ask for money. I did get money from my mom one or two times. It was out of desperation as I was behind on rent, and she gave it.. but she has held it against me ever since and brings up that i am using her every time we get in an argument. It honestly wasnt worth the money she gave me to have this grief. My other aunt has told her "thats what you do for your kids, when they need help you give it" but apparently my mom and fam doesnt beleive this.

And then i got pregnant. Rather than stay with my abusive ex i chose to move home. And when i had him, two months later i got extremely sick with fibromyalgia and hip and back problems. I have been disabled ever since.

I have problems keeping up with housework. I had a suicidal episode, where I was manic and didnt sleep for a few days. I did NOT attempt. I took myself to the hospital and gave my son to my cousin for a week until i was stable.

Now heres the kicker - rather than come in and help with housework, or with baby, half my family is trying to tell me to GIVE HIM UP for adoption or put him in foster care because I am sick. And that BOILS my blood. I am disabled, but i am not disabled to a point where I cannot care for my one year old. Yet they would rather see him in care than help me with the things i struggle with. It would be so easy for one of them to come in once or twice a week to help, yet they are "busy" and, my mom, likes to say"57 years old and gets tired from all the "work" she does - she means chores, and she is FINE, physically anyways.

I thnk theres something grossly wrong with that. If it were me i would do anything in my power to help a relative keep their child. I would NEVER suggest giving him up or giving up on raising him. Thats WRONG in my eyes.

I am so sorry you go through this too. I wish you the very best.