When we talk about childhood neglect, most people imagine the obvious; not being fed, clothed, or cared for.

But emotional neglect can be much more subtle. And because it’s so invisible, many people don’t even realise it happened to them - let alone anyone else.

Navigating family dynamics can be challenging, especially when dealing with emotionally immature parents. You might find yourself caught in frustrating conversations, feeling drained after every interaction, or questioning whether you’re being unreasonable for wanting healthier boundaries. The truth is, protecting your peace isn’t selfish—it’s essential. In this post, we’ll explore why boundaries matter, phrases to help you navigate tricky conversations, and how to stand firm without guilt.

Guilt is a natural emotion that plays a crucial role in our moral and emotional development. When experienced in a healthy way, guilt helps us recognise when we have made a mistake, encouraging us to make amends and grow as individuals. It strengthens relationships by promoting empathy, accountability, and ethical decision-making.

If you spent your childhood feeling more like a caregiver than a child, you might have experienced parentification—a role reversal where a child takes on responsibilities that should have belonged to an adult.

Maybe you were the one making sure your younger siblings were fed and dressed for school. Maybe you found yourself calming down your parent after their bad day or acting as their emotional support system. At the time, it may have felt normal—or even like something to be proud of. But the truth is, being forced to grow up too fast has lasting effects on your emotional well-being, self-worth, and relationships.