My mom said my depression is “just a cry for attention.” I hung up on her. AITA?

Navigating conversations about mental health with family can often feel like walking on a tightrope, especially when you're seeking understanding and support. It's a deeply personal journey, and opening up requires immense courage. We all hope for empathy, validation, and a comforting ear from the people who raised us, but sometimes, the reality can be a harsh and disappointing contrast to our expectations.

Today's AITA story throws a spotlight on a truly heartbreaking scenario that many can unfortunately relate to. Our original poster reached out to their mother about their struggles with depression, only to be met with a response that cut far deeper than intended. The question isn't just about whether hanging up was justified, but about the profound impact of dismissive words from a loved one.

"My mom said my depression is “just a cry for attention.” I hung up on her. AITA?"

The original poster's situation is incredibly tough, highlighting the persistent struggle many face when trying to communicate their mental health challenges to family, especially older generations. The dismissive nature of the mother's comment, reducing depression to a mere "cry for attention," is not only deeply invalidating but also perpetuates harmful stigma surrounding mental illness. It suggests a lack of understanding that can feel like a personal attack.

Parental support is often seen as a cornerstone of emotional well-being, and when that support transforms into judgment or minimization, it can inflict profound pain. It's natural for OP to feel betrayed and hurt; they sought comfort and received criticism. The mother's perspective, while potentially stemming from her own discomfort or lack of education on mental health, doesn't excuse the impact of her words on her struggling child.

The act of hanging up, while abrupt, can be interpreted as a raw, instinctual act of self-preservation. When faced with invalidation during a vulnerable moment, an immediate exit from the conversation might be the only way to prevent further emotional damage. It's about setting an immediate boundary, even if unspoken, to protect one's mental space from further harm. This isn't necessarily childish but a desperate attempt to regulate overwhelming emotions.

Ultimately, while ideally, a calm discussion might be preferred, expecting that in a moment of acute emotional distress is unrealistic. The OP was in a vulnerable state, and the mother's comment was a direct assault on that vulnerability. Protecting oneself from further emotional injury, even from a parent, is a valid response. The question of being the 'asshole' often boils down to intent, and here, OP's intent was clearly to escape further pain, not to maliciously hurt their mother.

The Verdict Is In: Was OP Justified in Pulling the Plug?

The comment section for this post was, as expected, a resounding chorus of NTA! Readers overwhelmingly empathized with OP, sharing their own stories of parental invalidation and the deep hurt it causes. Many pointed out that protecting one's mental health is paramount, and sometimes, that means cutting off conversations that are actively detrimental to your well-being. The consensus was clear: OP's reaction was a natural and understandable response to a deeply hurtful comment.

Interestingly, while most focused on validating OP's feelings, some comments also touched upon the generational divide in understanding mental health. They acknowledged that while parents might not intend harm, their outdated views can still cause significant damage. The conversation highlighted the ongoing need for better education around mental illness, even within families, and the importance of establishing healthy boundaries, regardless of who is on the other end of the line.

This story serves as a poignant reminder that while we crave understanding from our loved ones, sometimes that understanding isn't available. OP's decision to hang up, born out of hurt and a need for self-preservation, highlights the critical importance of setting boundaries, even with family. Your mental health journey is yours alone, and you are entirely justified in protecting it from comments that seek to diminish your experience. Remember, seeking professional help and surrounding yourself with supportive individuals is key, and it's okay if that support doesn't always come from where you expect it to.