LibraryScenariosWhy children's achievements can trigger parental identity crisis instead of celebration
Scenario

Why children's achievements can trigger parental identity crisis instead of celebration

My youngest child graduated high school last month and I know I should be proud but instead I feel like my purpose as a mother just ended.

Mira
Online
The coach is replying

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

Successful parenting can paradoxically feel like loss when child-rearing has provided primary life meaning and daily structure.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Cumulative grief — multiple losses?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.