During these trying times, more and more people are talking about the importance of mental health.
Why? Because why not?
Mental health is of utmost importance as it directly impacts our overall well-being, physical health, relationships, productivity, and societal harmony. By prioritizing mental health, we can experience happiness, cope with stress, build healthy relationships, perform better, prevent disorders, and create supportive communities. It is essential to prioritize self-care, seek help when needed, and promote mental well-being for a fulfilling and balanced life.
But what if someone really toxic is causing you to have mental health issues?
And what if that someone happens to be your very own parent?
Are you willing to cut ties with them and prioritize your well-being?
In relation to cutting ties with toxic family members, one TikTok user shares a powerful story emphasizing the importance of understanding and supporting those who make such decisions. Chassity Marchal, known as @chatswithchass on TikTok, opens up about her own experience of going “no contact” with her mother and addresses the misconceptions surrounding this choice.
Marchal acknowledges that severing ties with a parent is a difficult decision and not one taken lightly. Despite attempts at reconciliation, she realized that enduring patterns of mistreatment required her to prioritize her well-being and establish boundaries. Rejecting the notion that a toxic parent’s limited time should warrant continued contact, Marchal illustrates the absurdity of such advice by comparing it to a situation of spousal mistreatment, where reconciliation would not be encouraged.
Is she right or wrong? What are its pros and cons?
Asserting the importance of self-care and personal boundaries, Marchal emphasizes, “I have boundaries. I’m not going to let people treat me just whichever way they want to treat me.”
While she acknowledges the challenges and unhappiness associated with the situation, she highlights the need to prioritize oneself and make decisions based on what is ultimately best for mental and emotional health.
Marchal’s video resonates with many viewers who have had similar experiences. Commenters agree that it is not a child’s responsibility to fix damaged relationships with their parents, underscoring that the onus lies with the parent or caregiver. The sentiment is echoed by users who share their own stories of toxic family members and the lasting effects of their mistreatment. These testimonials shed light on the reality that being family does not excuse or justify treating someone poorly.
Turns out, Marchal is not alone in his battle.
A TikTok user, Ollie Quality, stitches Marchal’s video and further explores the profound damage experienced by children before reaching the decision to go “no contact.” He acknowledges that children understand the hardships and trauma their parents have faced, but this does not absolve parents of the responsibility for the emotional, physical, or spiritual harm inflicted upon their children.
Sharing his personal encounter with a toxic mother who belittled him during a difficult period, Ollie Quality reveals the profound impact such relationships can have. He describes experiencing physical reactions, including panic attacks, shaking, night sweats, and difficulty maintaining healthy romantic relationships. Ultimately, he, too, chose to go “no contact” to protect his well-being. He emphasizes the need for children to receive love and respect from their parents, especially when going through challenging times. He questions the common response of “But that’s your mom, dad, sister, auntie,” asserting that one’s own self-worth matters in the equation.
Both Marchal and Ollie Quality’s stories highlight the significance of prioritizing mental health and well-being over societal expectations and familial ties. Their narratives serve as a reminder that sometimes severing toxic relationships is a necessary step toward healing and self-preservation.
Do you agree with them? Don’t forget to watch the video below.
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@chatswithchass Just because someone is “family” doesnt mean they can treat someone anyways they want. #chatswithchass ♬ original sound – Chats with Chass
