Ep.120 Empathy, Boundaries, and Mental Health in Parenting Adult Children with Dr. Gail Saltz

I received a request from a listener to cover the topic of challenging relationships with adult children, and I was floored to get many responses from other listeners who were also having similar issues with grown kids. On this week's episode, I sit down with the esteemed Dr. Gail Saltz, a clinical associate professor of psychiatry and psychoanalyst, columnist, bestselling author, and television commentator. You know the old saying, bigger kids, bigger problems. Ever wondered how to manage adult children who seem to repeat regrettable choices? We cover that and much more, offering practical advice on developing adult-adult relationships and balancing empathy with self-care. Dr. Saltz brings her vast expertise in family dynamics to the forefront, addressing the emotional toll of parenting adult children while offering actionable steps to handle issues like substance abuse and mental illness. We dig into the necessity of setting boundaries, fostering resilience, and the complexity of maintaining authentic relationships while protecting the privacy of our children and family dynamics.Lastly, Dr. Saltz tackles the sensitive subject of suicidal ideation, emphasizing the power of open communication and the hope offered by treatment options. We discuss how to encourage grown children to become independent, the psychological hurdles they face, and the impact on long-term relationships when resentment is present. This episode is packed with compassion, expert insights, and real-world strategies to help you navigate the intricate landscape of midlife challenges, relationships, and mental health. Don't forget to leave your reviews on Spotify or Apple to help others find "Asking for a Friend"!You can find Dr. Gail Saltz at:https://drgailsaltz.com/Check out her website above to find the many books she has writtenhttps://www.instagram.com/drgailsaltz/https://www.facebook.com/GailSaltzPodcasts:PersonologyHow Can I HelpThe Power of Different_________________________________________If you’re doing “all the right things” and still feel stuck, adding a layer of support may be an option. I’ve partnered with a trusted telehealth platform offering modern solutions for women in midlife—including micro-dosed GLP-1 and other peptide therapies.https://elliemd.com/michelefolan - Create a free account to view all products.Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/✨ Sign up for my weekly newsletter: https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fqLike to connect? Email me at [email protected] Transcripts are created with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.