(((tohelpafriend)))

I have estranged myself from my family for similar reasons. I could have sworn that no one could possibly understand the way that I feel inside towards almost everyone in my family. Seriously!

For years, I haven't had any interest in my family. I've been drifting for years, emotionally and physically (avoiding all contact with them). I have 2 young girls of my own, and I don't want them to suffer because I can't handle my family. My ex-hub continues to go to my family's house, so the girls do continue to have regular contact with their grandparents and an elder uncle. I, however, avoid all contact with family.

I do question myself, wondering if my reasons for avoiding are good enough. My re-enforcer is that I'm not a BS'er. I don't believe in acting cool, while I feel angry or sickened by another person. The stuff happened years ago to me, but until I accept it I cannot accept those that played a big part in the abuse occurring to me. My parents may not have SA'd me, but they didn't take healthy precautions to protect me. They raised me in a very sick extended family, which had a huge impact on my upbringing.

Does that help you feel any better about the thoughts that you're having? Have you talked with a T about your idea? My T supports my decision. He encourages me not to isolate myself, but also try to respect my own thoughts and emotions in life.