Dear Haya, I’m writing to you with a very frustrating query. Both my parents, who are in their late 50s and early 60s are very very stubborn. Both of them have certain medical issues that can lead to major problems, but they are never ready to acknowledge it and visit a doctor.
It is very rare that they would agree to go see a doctor when they are unwell, but most of the time it is them resorting to self-medication. Being their daughter, I worry a lot of their health and their inflexible behaviour often impacts my mental health as I keep worrying about them round the clock. They just never consider how anxious and distressed I feel about their nonchalant attitude towards their health, as the age with time.
Please help me understand how to deal with it without compromising my own mental health in the process. — A worried daughter Dear worried daughter, Thank you for reaching out and sharing your feelings. It is understandable how frustrating and emotionally stressful it can be when loved ones, especially parents, refuse to prioritise their health.
You’re coming from a place of deep care and worry, which makes the situation all the more challenging when they don’t respond as you hope. First, it is important to recognise that you can’t control their decisions, but you can control your response and do the best possible of what is in your control. I hear your concern about how they don’t consider how anxious and distressed you feel about their nonchalant attitude towar.