I don't have custody of my children, AMA

[arisefromtheashes]

It's a very long, complicated story and I can't be too specific about some details but I'll try and answer as honestly as I can.

I have name changed as I am worried about the judgement but I genuinely want to talk about it and try and remove some of the stigma and shame that comes hand in hand with this situation.

Do you think your kids will think you were a good mum when they grow up? Do you think you are?
Do you still find being away from them hard or does it get easier as time goes on?

Wow. Thank you for answering. You have nothing but respect from me.

@Sophieelmer that's a hard question to answer. I know ds1 thinks I'm a great mum (ds2 is too disabled to be able to decide) but I know I made mistakes and choices I wish I could change. I was not abusive or neglectful and I feel I did the best I could but I also think I could have been a lot better.

I still find it hard. I have moved on to a place where I'm not in floods of tears all the time but not a day goes by where I don't ache for them. I find it hard being around children in general.

I’ve no questions but just wanted to say that you come across as a really brave and caring mum, OP. I’m so sorry you were so badly let down by SS when it sounds like all you needed was the right support. This thread has brought me to tears - I’m a mum who’s had MH issues too and any one of us could spiral like that in the circumstances you describe. Wishing you all the best