Grandma D

Thank you for your question and welcome to ADHDCentral.

I can certainly relate to your question. My son is now 24 years old. He also had ADHD and Bipolar disorder and I understand how difficult parenting a child with mental illness is. I also know how exhausting it can be. I applaud your efforts to raise your granddaughter.

I do not think that wanting time to yourself is such a bad thing. You have spent your life first raising your own children and then, when you thought you were done and could take time to do what you enjoy (not that we don't enjoy raising our children but I think you know what I mean), you raised your granddaughter.

Obviously, I would not be able to tell you what to do or what is best for either you or your granddaughter. However, I fail to see a problem in making sure your granddaughter is safe and well cared for while you take a much needed vacation.

Our children need to develop independence and self-sufficiency skills. You would be the best judge to determine if another environment might be able to provide your granddaughter with these skills and help her to learn respect and responsibility.

Although the decision must be yours, please know you can post on the site and be supported, no matter which decision you make.

Let me know how this turns out.

Eileen