When my sons were diagnosed over 30 years ago, there wasn’t a roadmap.
There wasn’t social media or the support that’s available today. I felt like I’d been thrown in at the deep end and I had to learn to swim.
Since then, I’ve spoken to many many families through AnnaKennedyonline and across socialmedia, and although every family is different, the same worries come up time and time again.
💜 1. “What do I do now?”
The diagnosis is only the beginning. Parents are often left trying to work out the next steps on their own.
💜 2. Feeling like you have to fight for everything.
Whether it’s school support, assessments, services or simply being listened to, the battle can leave families emotionally and physically exhausted.
💜 3. Feeling judged.
I’ve been there. People can be quick to judge a child or a parent’s response without having any idea what that family is coping with behind closed doors.
💜 4. Worrying about the future.
Even now, with my sons as autistic adults, that worry never completely leaves you oys always there . As parents and carers, we’re always thinking ahead and wondering what tomorrow will bring.
💜 5. Feeling lonely.
This is the one people don’t always talk about. You can be surrounded by people and still feel incredibly alone. Caring can be isolating, and sometimes you just need someone to say, “I understand.”
If there’s one thing I have learnt over the years, it’s this…
There is no such thing as the perfect parent.
We are all learning, we are all adapting, and we are all doing the best we can for the people we love.
So if today feels tough, please don’t think you’re failing. You’re not.
Keep going.
Keep believing in your loved one. Please remember, there are people who understand because they have walked a similar path.
Sending love to every family navigating this journey. You are not alone. 💜
