My kids and parents rely on me. Is it selfish to put myself first? | Dear Mariella

You must prioritise your own wellbeing – it’s what your two adopted children and your elderly parents depend onThe dilemma My husband and I have two adopted children with complex and lifelong learning disabilities who attend a specialist school. I left my job to stay at home with them as their needs were much greater than we ever anticipated, but I have struggled. I feel I have lost my own sense of being and identity. I am exhausted, on antidepressants and suffer with anxiety, PTSD and chronic depression. I also have elderly parents with a history of illness.I do have some joy in the form of gardening, which has given me a purpose, a sanctuary, and brings me beauty and hope. We have a small garden, and I want to expand it into a larger business, which may even support the children in the future, much like a care farm. Continue reading... https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2021/jan/31/my-kids-and-parents-rely-on-me-is-it-selfish-to-put-my-own-needs-first #family #children #life_and_style