How to Talk About Abandonment Without Shame
Examples to help you start talking about abandonment without shame with a loved one, therapist, or friend.
You can use these scripts when talking about abandonment with a friend, family member, or therapist. They are examples to help you start talking about abandonment without shame.
“One of my parents wasn’t able to show up for me the way I needed.”
“I used to think I did something wrong to make them leave.”
“I don’t always talk about it, but one of my parents left when I was younger. It still affects how safe I feel with people sometimes.”
“If I seem distant or overly independent, it’s not about you.”
“When people pull away, even a little, it can bring up old feelings of rejection. I’m working on that.”
“I’ve realized I can love people and still acknowledge that what they did was painful.”
“Their absence reflected their capacity, not my worth.”
“I didn’t drive anyone away. I was their child.”
“Feeling rejected doesn’t mean I am worthless.”
“I can hold both truths: I was abandoned, and I’m still deserving of love.”
“What happened to me says more about them than it ever did about me.”