Being a mother with a defiant or estranged adult child can be one of the most challenging and heartbreaking experiences to navigate. As Sally Harris, a mother who has experienced this difficult road herself, shares her insights and wisdom, we explore the process of rebuilding and reconnecting with an adult child after a period of estrangement. This blog post aims to provide support, guidance, and practical steps for moms who are seeking to heal their relationships and foster a healthier connection with their adult children.

Acknowledge the Need for a Safe Environment:

When seeking to reconnect with an estranged adult child, creating a safe environment for communication is crucial. It's essential to recognize that something must have happened in both of your lives to cause the estrangement. By prioritizing a safe and open space for dialogue, you can begin the journey of rebuilding trust and understanding.

Fostering Financial Independence:

For moms who may have enabled their adult children in the past, fostering financial independence is an important step. This involves letting go of enabling behaviors and encouraging them to take responsibility for their own lives and finances. While it might be challenging at first, empowering your adult child to be self-sufficient is a key aspect of reconnection.

Respecting Personal Space and Privacy:

Respect for personal space and privacy is crucial, even as you work towards reconnecting. If your adult child is living with you temporarily, setting clear boundaries while acknowledging their personal space is vital. Establishing guidelines around communication frequency and timing shows mutual respect and consideration.

Navigating Life Choices and Careers:

As a mom, you may have specific expectations for your child's life choices and career path. However, it's essential to navigate this delicate topic with sensitivity during the reconnection process. Support your adult child's choices, even if they differ from your expectations, and give them the space to explore their own interests and passions.

Empowering Decision Making:

Empower your adult child to take charge of their own decisions and life choices. If you've been controlling or making decisions for them in the past, it's time to step back and allow them to navigate their journey independently. This empowerment can strengthen their sense of self and contribute positively to your reconnection.

Seeking Help and Support:

Reconnecting with an estranged adult child can be a challenging and emotional process. Seeking help and support, whether through support groups, therapy, or counseling, can provide valuable guidance and understanding. Sally Harris offers a support group designed to assist moms through this difficult journey.

Embracing the Journey of Reconnection:

When the moment of reconnection arrives, embrace the journey together with your adult child. Forgiveness is an important aspect of healing, but it doesn't mean forgetting or blindly trusting right away. Take your time to rebuild trust and nurture a healthy, authentic connection based on mutual growth and understanding.

Rebuilding and reconnecting with a defiant or estranged adult child is a journey filled with challenges, emotions, and growth. As you create a safe environment, foster financial independence, respect personal boundaries, and empower your child to make their own decisions, remember that healing takes time and effort from both sides. Seek support, embrace forgiveness, and celebrate the progress made on this transformative journey of reconnection and healing.

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. If you need further support and guidance, I am here to help. Reach out to me for a consultation call, where we can discuss your unique circumstances and develop strategies to overcome enabling behaviors. 

I will be able to make recommendations to you on how I can help you in your personal situation.

First step in working with Sally-