Discussing my past mental health with DS

[ceramicunicorn]

In the past I have had severe mental health problems. I was in a terribly abusive relationship as a teenager which still affects me now, have twice attempted suicide, worked as an escort as I was so desperate for affection and have had a cocaine addiction.

I am now married to a wonderful man and have a wonderful ds. I hold down a good job and have done now for 5 years, no drugs, no 'craziness', just occasional bouts of depression which I have so far been able to cope with.

I'm hoping to continue onwards and upwards but I know I can never be certain some of these feelings won't return one day. My son is only a baby at the moment but I'm already terrified of how/ if/ when I should discuss my past mental health. I have very obvious scars on my wrists and arms which will need explaining at the very least.

Any advice would be lovely.

I think in this day and age, mental health is all around us. I believe kids should be taught about it, as they will have to deal with it throughout their lives. from being in the school yard, to their adult life.

It is all around us.
Don't worry about explaining things to your son, enjoy his life as a baby right now.
You should be proud of yourself for how far you have come.

I too, have scars on my arms that will need explaining. They can be brushed off as anything until they really start questioning them. by then they will be at an age to fully understand. (mine haven't questioned yet)
My DD is 10, and my DS 9. I have taught them about, depression, anxiety, PTSD and a whole host of other mental health illnesses.
I have anxiety, my OH has ptsd and depression. My mother is also an alcoholic, and so i have explained alcoholism to them too.
Now, people might feel I am given them too much info.

My kids are very understanding of others needs, and feelings.
They also understand how important it is to express their needs and feelings too :)

Thank you Sausage