As parents we are naturally very effected by our children's mood. This is true. But we are also responsible for how we express our sadness to our children and making them feel responsible for our moods is not acceptable. My mother has a very hard time when I cry and often says that if I do anything to myself, she will follow right behind me so I must accept responsibility for that too. She means well but it does put guilt on me.

Do you think perhaps your mom means well but doesn't communicate it effectively or do you believe your mom is intentionally saying things to bring you down?