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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

To ask those of you who’ve had to go through something really difficult on your own, did it change how you relate to people afterwards?

78 replies

QuietCoinsNina · 10/12/2025 11:39

As in, did it shift how much you trust, how you reach out for support or how you view friendships/relationships in general?

OP posts:
InterestedDad37 · 10/12/2025 12:03

Q2C4 · 10/12/2025 11:56

Yes - in that I realised I am basically on my own with the really hard stuff.

I'd second that, but it also helped me appreciate that when push comes to shove, I can actually do it, get myself through it, come out the other side smiling, etc.

Alphabet1spaghetti2 · 10/12/2025 12:02

Another yes. As pp you realise that when the proverbial hits the fan you are on your own. You and only you can make whatever decision needs to be made.
I tend to step away from other peoples problems where possible. Although people tend to see you coping alone and then think you are some great sage who has all the answers. Couldn’t be further from the truth! More like madly padding, whilst attempting to not drown or throw up with a veneer of something called calm! I also tend not share my private issues anymore, doesn’t really help in making any decisions and just becomes the source of others gossip.

Q2C4 · 10/12/2025 11:56

Yes - in that I realised I am basically on my own with the really hard stuff.