How to recognize when your adult children see you as a toxic parent and take steps toward healing the relationship.

When the relationship between a mother and her adult children begins to fray, it can feel like a deep, personal loss. The bond that once felt unbreakable can start to weaken, and the sadness that follows can be overwhelming. For some, the pain is even sharper when they begin to sense that their children might view them not just with distance, but as a toxic influence that needs to be kept at bay.
Recognizing the signs your children might feel this way can be deeply painful, but it is also a courageous and necessary first step toward healing. It takes immense strength to look inward, acknowledge past missteps, and begin to rebuild a connection on new, healthier ground. Here are 15 signs your children might feel this way, along with insights on what each could mean and how you can take steps to heal.