[Lissa513]

My adult children do not appear to accept my mental illness diagnoses. Rather, they just avoid me altogether. Even my oldest, who is a newly credentialed therapist. Instead, I am treated as a toxic entity. When I become symptomatic, I am blamed and argued with, which only heightens my symptoms. I spend most of my time feeling like a worthless waste of time. Alone. I adore my kids and I also know how horrible being caught in my symptoms can be. But i am not that person, the one I become when manic, or gripped by OCD, depressed, whatever. I don't know what to do.

[Victoria'smom]

There's a lot of damage we do to those around us even if we tried to shield love ones. You are the person that becomes manic, or depressed it's just an enhanced or dulled version of you. As adults they're trying to set boundaries to protect themselves. Avoid arguing, try to respect their boundaries, show them your trying by participating in your treatment (this includes Intensive outpatient program or weekly therapy.), and being there for them more like a friend then a parent at this age.

[Travelinglady]

HiLissa513, and welcome to Psych Central! I am bipolar and I know I can be hard to deal with when I'm having an episode. Plus I think it's hard for our children to see us like that.

I'm sorry your children reject you. Could they be feeling overwhelmed when you are having an episode? And, yes, they do have to set boundaries.

I agree with Miguel's mom's advice. Adult children need to be treated as fellow adults. It's hard to do. (I have two adult children.) But I am trying to keep that in mind. And not impose on them. But I still have my husband, and he's literally been a lifesaver.

Did you and your children as adults once have a good relationship?