I’m a stepmum and I’m really struggling with the situation at home. My husband has three sons, aged 22, 19 and another younger son. The eldest two still live at home and, honestly, I don’t feel I can trust either of them around our daughter.
Both have issues with gambling, smoking weed, drinking, and steroids involved. There are anger issues too, particularly with one of them. They have very few responsibilities at home and seem to have a lot of freedom to spend money on gambling, drinking and drugs rather than contributing much or working towards moving out.
One works in husbands company but recently stole from the company and still has his job.. The other walked out and now just home.. both heavily into online gambling.. No consequences, and i have little say in the matter.
I completely understand that life is expensive and that young adults often stay at home longer now, but I’m increasingly worried about the influence this is having on my daughter. She’s growing up seeing gambling, weed and unhealthy behaviour as normal, and I don't want that environment for her.
I feel guilty because these are my husband’s children, and I know he wants to support them. But equally, I feel my first responsibility is to protect my daughter and provide a stable home environment for her. Has anyone else dealt with this with adult stepchildren whose behaviour affected younger children in the home?
the situation is starting to make me think about leaving, because I don’t know how much longer I can live with the constant worry and tension.Interested to know if anyone else has experienced this. Does it get better? worse ?? It just seems to be one thing after another.