that is actually very similar to how I treat the situations that arise for me. my kids have a basic knowledge of what goes on with us (H is bipolar) - the older ones understand the basics of what depression and bipolar disorder are, so that makes it easier to say 'I really need a break right now, I'm going to my room'.

but my youngest (sometimes the two youngest) just have a harder time accepting it. perhaps I will use your words, maybe it will help. often she just follows me and lays on the floor outside my door and cries. we do have lots of good communication in our family and work hard to keep it that way and I always apologize to them if I'm mean, but sometimes it's hard for the little ones to understand what's going on.