Who's Stressed?

When I was (ahem) a bit younger, stress involved going to the office.  I despised practicing law and dealing with oppositional attorneys and clients all day long.  Sure, I liked the money...who wouldn't?  But the stresses of practicing law -- a career that was not created with my conflict-avoidant psyche in mind -- many times overtook the pleasure that the money could buy.

Little did I know, that ten years or so later I would realize how good I had it as a mostly-single, world-traveling, jewelry-buying lawyer.  Sure, I still practice law, but on my own terms.  I write and teach, which are both relatively stress-less.

Unfortunately, despite these much-needed improvements in my life, the stress is really not lessened at all.  That's because the stress that comes with having a child is worse than any law-related stress I have ever experienced.

Now, thanks to a 2009 study, my worst fears have been confirmed: mothers of children with disabilities have  even more stress than parents of neurotypical children, as much stress as combat veterans, and just as little support.

Whew, now that we have scientifically confirmed the shredded condition of my nervous system, all I have to worry about is what do do about it.

(No children were hurt in the writing of this blog post.  Yet.)

Susan
www.susancalistri.com