

51: When 'They Did Their Best' Wasn't Enough: Healing From Childhood Emotional Neglect and Parenting Challenges
Have you ever thought, “My parents really tried their best… but I still got hurt”? This episode dives into that exact truth—the emotional complexity of being raised by loving parents who lacked the tools to meet all your needs.
Dr. Angela Downey shares her story from both sides:
- As a child with unmet emotional needs
- And as a mother navigating burnout while trying to give her kids everything
We explore how:
- Childhood coping becomes adult codependency
- “Being the good child” often means losing your voice
The most liberating truth? Healing doesn’t require your parents’ permission. You don’t have to wait for them to become the parent you needed—you can become that safe place for yourself now.
You can buy my books now on Amazon.
🦋 Enough As I Am - A healing workbook for anyone navigating people-pleasing, guilt, or self-abandonment. It’s filled with practical tools to help you build boundaries and reclaim your self-worth.
🖋️ Enough As I Grow - A 365-day journal with daily prompts to guide you through your healing journey one day at a time.
If you're interested in a list of books that I recommend to help you on your journey you can request it by clicking on the link in my show notes.
🦋 Enough As I Am Workbook on Amazon.
🖋️ Enough as I Grow 365 day Guided Journal on Amazon
📘 Reading list
Email: codependentdoctor@gmail.com
Social Media links: Here
🎵 Music: Touching The Air by Graceful Movement