Podcast : Single Mum vs. Emetophobia: How I Learned to be Truly Calm When My Kids Throw Up
Sunneva is a single mum of two boys who was aware of her Emetophobia from a very young age. Her initial reaction would be to run away from each situation involving sickness, whilst creating anxiety and panic. Despite her emetophobia, Sunneva became a mother to two boys, however was suffering to navigate the life of motherhood whilst her phobia controlled her.
Perfectionism was dominating Sunneva during parenthood. She wanted to become a perfect mother and describes herself as being an over protective mother due to wanting to control aspects of her life where she felt helpless. When living with emetophobia, Sunneva would avoid taking her boys places but the ‘mum guilt’ she experienced was overpowering because she wanted to be present and confident as a mum, however her phobia was restricting how she was able to show up. Sunneva was struggling with negative emotions daily, and felt like a failure in regards to being a mother.
Now emetophobia free, Sunneva is a present, hands on and powerful mum!
Previously, parenting her boys during illness periods was a major struggle. Sunneva would keep her distance, create a lot of anxiety and restrict her own food and water intake. Despite trying to hide her phobia, Sunneva was very aware that her sons were noticing her behaviours. The turning point was reached when her sons began to mirror her behaviours, and attempted to comfort her.
Sunneva knew that she wanted to take charge and become a role model for her boys in the future, so her Emetophobia-free journey began!
As a single mum, Sunneva had to create time to prioritise her journey which was a challenge. However because she did this, she is now living completely Emetophobia free, with a completely different life and has even become a coach herself!
In Sunneva’s words, if you don’t do it for yourself, do it for your children. What you do today will affect your tomorrow!
Today's episode brought to you by Michelle Johnson and Sunneva Birgisdóttir.
Have you watched our other Emetophobia Podcasts?