Belle: Suicide and parental guilt

"Which way can I exit them that will mess them up the least. Because if I stay, I'm really going to mess them up. I hurt them if I stay. I hurt them if I go." - Belle

Belle is feeling suicidal and like a bad parent. Hillary talks with her about the idea of a "good enough" mom. 

Listen for:

• Instead of treating Belle's suicidal thoughts as taboo, Hillary invites her to share them and feel less alone.
• Hillary tells Belle there is such a thing as a "good enough" parent. Focus on repairing hurt when it happens, not on being perfect.  
• Lack of sleep impairs impulse control, which makes parenting even more difficult.

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  If you're experiencing emotional distress and want to talk, The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention has a list of local crisis centres which can be viewed here.

  If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1 or the number for emergency services in your community."