There is a paradox here, however, a paradox that provides some consolation: these feelings of guilt are harmful to one's mental health, yes, granted. But those who have no need to feel guilty are, in my experience, the most mentally unhealthy of all of us, because the only way to have a guilt-free relationship with one's parents is to talk to them and see them constantly, maybe even live with them. And that can't be good, can it? So if those are the choices – permanent guilt, or some kind of Freudian awfulness involving five phone calls a day – then I have made the sane and mature choice.
In Nick Hornby's "How to Be Good," the author explores the complex emotions surrounding guilt and mental health in familial relationships. While guilt is often perceived as detrimental to one’s mental well-being, Hornby suggests that those who experience no guilt in their relationships may actually be the unhealthiest. The implication is that genuine connection with parents often requires frequent communication and closeness, which can lead to various strains and complications in...
