My heart is breaking.
My daughter, who has Reactive Attachment Disorder, is especially RADish these days. E has been stealing, lying and manipulating much more lately. I get it. It's her attempt to control her world. However, her maladaptive behavior has turned into illegal behavior. We've had to make one of the most difficult decisions of our lives---and that is to enroll E in a residential treatment facility that has a RAD specific program. We take her on Monday. She'll be there for 6-9 months.
I know. It's not ideal. It's not what any of us want. We are to the point that our excellent Christian counselors are even at a loss for how to help her. If anything, this program will be an intense reminder of the skills she's learned. She needs a reset. We need a reset. We all have PTSD from living with her. I know that sounds harsh, but it's true. The other kids are weary of having their possessions stolen, of being manipulated into a fight, and of the constant conflict.
We pray this helps.
I've been so comforted by friends who have had to do the same thing. There is hope. My friend Erin, a fellow adoptive mom, expresses herself so well in this piece she wrote for The Mighty.
My deepest gratitude to those who have come beside us in love and support.
