We’ve established how emotionally absent parents behave. Now let’s explore how to handle it.
Table of Contents
1. Think of Them as Children
In some ways, emotionally distant parents behave like bratty children. Learning to look at them that way will help keep you from internalizing their barbs and negligence.
2. Don’t Try To Change Their Behavior
It’s nearly impossible to change another person. Improvement comes from within. Their behavior may be maddening and hurtful, but trying to force them to be a different person may make matters worse.
3. Walk Away
No rule says you must stick around if your parents are acting ridiculous. We’re not suggesting you move out — although it’s an option if you have alternatives — but you can go into another room and close the door.
4. Tell a Trusted Adult
If things are unbearable, tell a trusted adult about the situation. They’ll be able to help you get the appropriate help. If the emotional or physical detachment has mushroomed into abuse, there is no shame in getting authorities involved. It’s the right thing to do.
However, ask for help from another adult. It’s prudent to get an outsider’s perspective. They can assess the situation objectively.
5. Don’t Onboard Their Baggage
Life is challenging enough without taking on someone else’s baggage. It’s rough when you live with detached parents, but don’t make their problems your own.
6. Parent Yourself
It’s not ideal, but if you’re stuck with an emotionally detached parent, for the time being, learn to parent yourself. Give yourself compliments, and shield yourself from their toxicity. If you can, lean on aunts, uncles, grandparents, or cousins. One day, you’ll be free of the situation and able to craft a life you love. The key is not to give up.
You can’t have a healthy relationship with an emotionally absent mother or father. So do the best you can to get through this stage.
With a touch of self-confidence and a little perseverance, there’s a light at the end of the tunnel.
