Neglect
Being cared for by someone whose addiction meant they could not really care for you
A parent or caregiver whose drinking or drug use meant the lights did not always stay on, dinner did not always happen, and you learned early not to count on them.
Loving someone whose addiction came first teaches you to read a room from the doorway, to expect the lights off, and to keep your hopes small enough that they cannot fall far. Many people who grew up this way still brace when the phone rings at night. You will find others here who lived on that same uncertain ground, and who know it was never about how lovable you were.
Nothing on this page is a diagnosis, and nothing here decides what is wrong with you, because nothing is wrong with you. Something happened to you. This page exists so that when you are ready, you can find people who understand it from the inside.
You do not have to carry this alone.
Bridge of Hope Recovery is a free, anonymous, peer-led fellowship for trauma survivors. Meetings run throughout the week by phone, by video, and in person. No cost, no waitlist, no one asking for your real name.
Related experiences we cover
- Not having enough food, or never knowing if there would be food
- Not having clothing, shelter, or basic physical care
- Being left alone when you were too young to be alone
- Not receiving medical or dental care you needed
- Nobody being emotionally present for you as a child
- Not being taught the things a child needs to know to function