How I Cared for My Kids While Healing From Meds

Today, I’m really excited to talk with you about kids in withdrawal, because I have kids and I went through psychiatric drug withdrawal with three kids. And I know some of you are in that situation.

If that's you, I would love to share some of my journey with you—about things I learned, how I protected my kids while going through something so hard, how I still cared for them while healing.

Take heart and take hope: they can come through this, you can come through this, and be doing really, really well.

When Feelings Are Bigger Than Life

Some of the things I learned through withdrawal is that my feelings were enormous—bigger than life. They were very hard to manage. It was scary and terrifying. And yeah, I had kids to care for at the same time.

It might seem like a worst-case scenario: “I don’t have space to heal,” or “I don’t have the resources to heal.”

But I want to encourage you: the two can go together. You and your kids can come through this and become very resilient. You can go through withdrawal, have your kids, and be okay.

I’ll share what helped me and my kids. And of course, not every case is the same—so pick what’s helpful for you, and leave the rest. Your story is your own.

When Parenting Becomes a Source of Strength

One thing that can actually be great about being a parent during withdrawal is that you already have a sense of responsibility. That ongoing need to act normal in front of your kids—that can actually serve you.

You might be faking that you’re okay. You’re trying your best to get them breakfast or help them get ready for school, even if it feels impossible.

Maybe you’re feeding them cereal because you can’t be near food. Maybe you’re too sick to stand. But the fact that your focus is on them and not just yourself—that actually helps your brain. It pulls you out of the loop of despair and directs your brain toward positive effort.

Even just an hour of helping them get out the door is like a mental exercise for your brain. A brain that’s learning it can function again.

Think of It as Brain Rehab

These normal actions—doing the dishes, packing lunches, reading a book—might feel impossible. But try to think of them like physical therapy for your brain.

Even if you can only do 30 minutes. Even if you collapse afterward. It’s still building neural strength. And that adds up.

When healing comes, it really does come. And then you’re just living life again—doing all the things normally. But for now, even tiny efforts count.

How to Talk to Your Kids About Withdrawal

Now, what about the things you can’t do? How do you explain that to your kids?

First, give yourself permission. Right now, your capacity is limited. That’s not forever—it’s just this season.

If you can eat dinner with them, do it. If you can ask about their day, do it. If you can walk with them, do it. And if not, that’s okay.

Then, find a way to explain it. What they need to know is: this isn’t their fault.

For Younger Kids

Maybe you used to jump on the trampoline or play soccer. Now you can’t.

You could say:

“Mom’s getting better from a sickness and I’m not able to play soccer right now, but I’ll watch you and clap for you.”

That way, they know they’re still loved, and they’re not the reason you’re tired or different.

For Older Kids

They can handle a little more. I had an 11-year-old and a 9-year-old when I started. We told them:

“I’m going through withdrawal from a medication. It’s affecting my body and I need time to heal.”

They saw me cry sometimes. And instead of wondering if something terrible had happened, they understood:

“Mom’s crying because of withdrawal, not because something bad happened.”

Sometimes they’d even say:

“Are you doing better with the meds thing, Mom? You seem better.”

Being honest—within age-appropriate limits—gives your kids peace. It helps them feel safe.

When You’re Not at Your Best

If you’ve had a moment—maybe you yelled, lost your temper, or sobbed in front of them—please know, you’re not alone.

We’re vulnerable in withdrawal. Emotionally raw. And we might not react the way we used to.

What matters is repair.

Apologize. Check in with them. Let them know they’re still loved. That goes a long way. You don’t have to be perfect—just real, honest, and loving.

Create an Emotional Buffer for Yourself

To care for your kids, you also have to care for yourself.

• Get the breaks you need
• Let yourself rest
• Eat nourishing food
• Ask for help
• Give yourself grace

Supporting your own healing is also for their good.

Fellow Parents: What's helped you?

These are just some of the things I learned. I’d love to hear what’s helped you—your thoughts or questions in the comments.

I needed a lot of support during this time. If you do too, please know you’re not alone.

You will come through this. You will feel better. And one day, you’ll feel normal again.

Take care. We’ll talk soon.