You’re Not Alone
If you’ve been reading the Monday blog or listening to the Friday podcast, you’ve probably heard this message a few times by now. A parent’s mental health is one of the most important things for your Angelman child. Compared to all of the health and social issues an Angelman individual might go through, a parent’s mental health is probably the most challenging.
There are a few things that can help with this journey to feeling stable. One is joining a community, or building your own. I’ve never felt more connected to other people than I do right now. I’ve laid my feelings bare for the world to see. I understand this isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. It still isn’t an easy process for me. I have benefited from this however. Each and every week I have a wide variety of people messaging me, commenting on my posts, and giving me encouragement and advice. The process of sharing Maddie’s story, has brought me closer to my family and friends.
You can also join a community. I remember being jealous that my wife was invited to a mom’s support group shortly after we attended the Angelman Family Conference. Fear not dads, there is actually a men’s group on Facebook as well. It’s called the Dedicated Angelman Dudes Society. This group has some fantastic organizers and individuals. There has even been a few group Zoom calls and even a poker night.
If you feel like you need further support, I would recommend seeing a counselor. You can go through your insurance company to see a provider in network. If this option isn’t available to you, the Angelman Syndrome Foundation actually has a counselor available to you as well. Visit ASF Counseling Services for more information.
If there’s one thing you can do this holiday season, please find your network. The stress of making sure your Angelman child is okay can be overwhelming and most likely you’ve been putting your own health on the back burner. There are fellow parents out there who are experiencing the same things as you. You’re not alone.
-Written by Adam Birchmeier
