How do you cope with feelings of guilt or shame related to your parent's addiction?

Many of us in this community know the heavy weight of guilt and shame that can come from having a parent with addiction. It’s a complicated mix of feelings, where love for our parent often clashes with the chaos their addiction brings into our lives. We might find ourselves asking, "What could I have done differently?" or "Is it my fault they’re struggling?" One thing that has helped me is recognizing that their addiction is not a reflection of my worth or my actions. It’s a tough realization, but reminding ourselves that we didn’t cause their addiction can be a significant step toward healing. Sometimes, just saying it out loud or writing it down can help shift the narrative in our heads. Another approach that many of us have found useful is creating boundaries. It’s okay to protect our own mental health. Whether it’s limiting contact when their behavior becomes overwhelming or deciding not to engage in certain conversations, setting boundaries can lead to a sense of empowerment. I remember when I started distancing myself a bit when their substance use was at its worst; it was hard, but I realized I needed that space to breathe and focus on my own wellbeing. Finding someone to talk to who gets it can be so valuable, too. I met someone through a support group who shares similar experiences, and we started chatting regularly. Just knowing I wasn’t alone in this struggle made the burden feel a bit lighter. Connecting with someone who truly understands can help us navigate those feelings of guilt and shame together, reminding us that we’re not responsible for our parent’s choices. Anyone else dealing with these feelings? It can be such a heavy load to carry alone. I’d love to hear what’s helped you cope.