You Are Allowed to Feel This Way: A Message to Parents of Kids with Disabilities

Parenting is hard, period. But parenting a child with disabilities? It’s a whole other level. I’ve been on this journey for 23 years, raising three autistic kids, two with ADHD, and my oldest with fragile health. I’ve seen it all—exhaustion, frustration, anger, sadness, joy, loneliness, and everything in between.

If no one has told you this today: it’s okay to feel all those things.

You are allowed to be exhausted. You’re allowed to be frustrated, angry, or even jealous of families who seem to have it easier. You’re allowed to want to run away and join the circus—trust me, I’ve considered it many times over the years. It doesn’t make you a bad parent. It doesn’t make your child a bad kid. It just means you’re human.

Give Yourself Permission

We often forget we’re human because society has this way of painting parents of children with disabilities as superheroes. And while I know you’re amazing, you’re not superhuman. You’re just like everyone else. So, I’m here to remind you:

• You are allowed to need a break.

• You are allowed to lock the bedroom door and steal a few minutes for yourself.

• You are allowed to say no.

• You are allowed to set boundaries and enforce them.

• You are allowed to wish things were different sometimes.

These feelings don’t mean you love your kids any less. They don’t mean you’re failing as a parent. They mean you’re doing what you can with what you’ve got—and that’s enough.

You’re Doing the Best You Can

Here’s the truth: your kids are lucky to have you. They really are. I’ve been in the trenches long enough to know that it’s not about being perfect. It’s about showing up every day and trying your best, even when you’re running on fumes.

So, please be kind to yourself. Take that break when you need it. Reach out for help if you can. Surround yourself with people who understand and won’t judge you for being human.

I’m proud of you. I see you. I hear you. And you totally got this.

Let’s Keep Talking

If this resonates with you, I’d love for you to share it. Tag a friend or send it to someone who needs to hear these words today. Remember, you’re not alone. This community is here to support you every step of the way.

You’ve got this. You really do.

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