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Originally Posted by Rayne Selene
This is really, really becoming unproductive and irrelevant to the original discussion. I came here for perspective on whether this behavior is normal, whether there's something I can do to help, and whether it's time to leave. I also needed to discuss my own emotions and mental health regarding the situation. I think all of these points have been addressed and I've seen some really great advice. But again--again!!--this IS NOT ABOUT THEIR MOTHER. I'm really disappointed in the turn this conversation has taken, and I would really appreciate it if future comments and posts could stay on track.
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I hope my last comment wasn't upsetting... I think the best thing for both boys would be to get into therapy or treatment of some sort. Even tho Toby is the one showing problems, I think his brother needs some support as well. I worry that he seemed to just sit and let his brother attack him in the car, and that may mean that he believes Toby's behavior is normal and just how brothers are. They are both still so young, and getting therapy for them both could really help and prevent any problems from getting worse or new ones showing up later on.
I still think, tho, that your safety and emotional well being is most important. I know you care about both boys, and their mother, so much. I don't think you would even be asking this question if you didn't. But no one deserves to go to work every day with the fear of getting hurt...
I wonder, have you ever done DBT? One of the things they teach is a pros and cons list, but it's a little different than normal. Basically, they make a square, and then split it into 4 squares. So, two columns and two rows. On the columns would be "stay" and "quit" for this. One the rows are "pros" and "cons." Then you fill in each square with the combination of the two, so the pros of staying and the pros of quitting, and then the cons for each. (Sorry if the explanation is too much, I have a habit of explaining things to death.) It helps to get an idea of all sides, and for me, it also helps to look at which square has more items but also some things may be more important to me than others.
It seems like this is a hard decision for you. Is there anything you can do, for you? Go to a movie, take a bath and just soak and relax, sit and read at a coffee shop? Maybe taking some time to care for yourself may help clear you mind and help with looking at what you feel is right, for you, in this situation.