I have 3 kids. Was undiagnosed when pregnant with all so no meds. Remember cycling with the last pregnancy, pretty depressed at the end of that pregnancy.

Was young and in an abusive marriage, but I did the best I could by the kids. Divorced when they were young. Raised them in poverty. Because of my mental health issues I could not be there for them emotionally. I did not feel I could connect with my children the way normal mothers did. I felt I pushed them away because I did not know how to give them what they needed, did not know what they needed. I did the best I could for them. I went to all their school activities. I would read to them. When they were young I was sure to tell them I loved them and hug them often. I laughed and joked with them. They are all grown up now and they all turned out to be good kids. No trouble with alcohol or drugs or the law. Good students. And they all really like me and stay in touch. They used to have fun making fun of me. Hugging me and holding on for long periods of time because they knew it made me uncomfortable. They would say "lets make mom squirm." they thought it was funny. I asked why they like me when i couldnt give to them and my son answered "because you always answered my questions mom."

one of my children has been diagnosed bipolar. my daugther. she started hearing voices in highschool. took meds for a bit but didnt like them. she says they are gone now. she experiences some mild mania from time to time, but nothing that really disrupts her life.