Kristina Kuzmič on Parenting Through Denial and Guilt
Episode Overview
Recognise that your worth is not tied to your child's struggles. Use self-compassion to combat guilt and judgment. Understand the importance of humour in difficult times. Learn to differentiate between behaviour that needs consequences and behaviour that needs help. Prioritise connecting with your child over controlling them.
"I am doing the best I know how, but I will make mistakes and that's human."
Kristina Kuzmič joins Brenda Zane on Hopestream to share her deeply personal journey of parenting a child struggling with substance use and mental health issues. Kristina opens up about the denial she faced regarding her son's depression and anxiety, and the harrowing night she had to call the police on him. This episode is a raw and honest conversation about the lies parents tell themselves, the guilt they carry, and the steps they take to support their children.
Kristina’s experiences, from dealing with her son’s aggressive outbursts to navigating the stigma of mental health, are both heart-wrenching and inspiring. She emphasises the importance of self-compassion and recognising that a parent's worth is not tied to their child's struggles or successes. With her signature humour and candidness, Kristina provides valuable insights for parents in similar situations. Her mantra, “No, thank you”, serves as a powerful reminder to reject judgment and self-criticism.
Whether you’re a parent dealing with similar issues or someone looking for heartfelt stories of resilience, this episode offers a mix of practical advice and emotional support. Tune in for a conversation that’s both comforting and enlightening.