Navigating Guilt/Shame: A Guide To The Core Issues Of Adoption
Adoption is a profound, meaningful event that shapes the future of everyone it touches. At its...
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A note on positive adoption language: in adoption, using people-first language is essential. Instead of saying someone was “put up for adoption” - we say their birth parents “created an adoption plan.” At one point in this blog*, we use outdated phraseology to reflect real questions children can sometimes ask themselves for relatability and searchability.
Adoption can be a beautiful and life-changing experience for both the child and the adoptive family. However, the journey does not end once the legal proceedings are finalized. For people who have been adopted, the path to self-discovery and understanding their identity may be fraught with challenges and emotional struggles. This is where post-adoption support comes in, providing crucial assistance and resources for individuals to navigate these difficulties.
In this blog, we will explore the importance of post-adoption support and the specific challenges that people who have been adopted may face. Our hope is to provide a better understanding of the needs of this community and inspire action toward creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for those who have been adopted.
Understanding the Perspective of People Who Have Been Adopted
When people who have been adopted struggle, it can be a difficult and emotional journey. While adoption can be a beautiful thing, some individuals may experience feelings of loss, confusion, and identity issues. Understanding the unique experiences and emotions of individuals who have been adopted is crucial to providing effective post-adoption support.
One potential psychological and emotional struggle that people who have been adopted may face is confusion about their identity. Identity is an essential aspect of human development, and for many people who were adopted, figuring out who they are and where they come from can be a daunting task. Individuals may struggle with questions such as "Why was I given up for adoption?"* or "Who are my biological parents?" These questions can leave individuals feeling lost, confused, and without a strong sense of identity.
Another struggle that individuals who have been adopted may encounter is related to feelings of belonging. They may feel like they don't fit in with their adoptive family or community, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. They may also feel disconnected from their cultural or ethnic heritage, which can add an additional layer of complexity to their feelings of not belonging. These struggles can affect an individual's mental health and overall well-being.
It is crucial to understand and acknowledge the unique experiences and struggles of people who have been adopted. Supportive post-adoption services are essential to address these issues. People who have been adopted may benefit from counseling, therapy, or support groups to address their emotional struggles and help them find their own sense of identity and belonging. When seeking support, it is important that individuals feel heard and understood by the professionals helping them.
The Role of Post-Adoption Support
Post-adoption support plays a crucial role in helping people who have been adopted navigate the unique challenges they may encounter throughout their lives. Adoption can bring a range of complex emotions and experiences, and it is essential to offer support to help individuals cope with the struggles they may face.
There are various forms of post-adoption support available to those who have been adopted, including counseling, therapy, and support groups. Counseling and therapy can be particularly helpful for individuals who are struggling with emotional and psychological issues related to their adoption journey. Professional support can help them navigate their emotions, work through any trauma or feelings of loss, and develop healthy coping mechanisms to better manage any difficulties they face.
Support groups can also be incredibly valuable for people who have been adopted, providing them with a chance to connect with others who have shared similar experiences. Support groups can be a supportive environment where individuals can share their stories, receive feedback, and gain valuable advice from others who have walked a similar path.
Creating a Supportive Community
In addition to professional support and support groups, adoptive families and communities can also offer crucial support to individuals who have been adopted. Adoptive families who are understanding and supportive of their child's emotional and psychological needs can create a nurturing environment that encourages growth and development. Communities that are willing to welcome and embrace people who have been adopted can also offer an environment of support and understanding.
As someone who has been adopted or knows someone who has been, it's important to recognize the crucial role that family, friends, and the community play in supporting individuals throughout their adoption journey. People who have been adopted may face a range of challenges and emotions that can be challenging to navigate on their own, making it vital for them to have a strong support system.
Family, in particular, plays a critical role in the life of someone who has been adopted. They provide unconditional love, support, and a sense of belonging that can replace the biological ties that may be missing. Adoptive families need to create a nurturing environment that fosters a sense of security and assures the individual who has been adopted of their love, regardless of their biological roots. Shared experiences and memories can help create strong bonds that can last a lifetime.
Friends also play a crucial role in supporting individuals who have been adopted. They provide a different perspective and a sense of normalcy that may be missing from an individual who has been adopted’s family environment. Friends can help someone who has been adopted navigate challenges and provide much-needed support to help them feel less alone in their struggles.
Post-adoption support is crucial in helping people who have been adopted navigate the challenges they may face. This support can come in various forms, including counseling, therapy, and support groups. By offering assistance beyond the initial adoption process, individuals can receive the resources they need to thrive throughout their lives.
See how Families Forever, a program of NCHS, can support you and your family not just during your adoption journey but far beyond it with post-adoption support. Learn more here and reach out today.
