Reddit user struggles to support parents alone while facing stress, sparking debate on family duty and boundaries
BEING part of a healthy family where adult children are not required to “parent” their own parents is often considered a blessing. However, for one man in his 30s, this is far from reality.
In a recent Reddit post that has since gained significant traction, user spaghetticode94 shared a harrowing emotional dilemma: whether to continue supporting his divorced parents indefinitely or to cut ties in pursuit of a more peaceful life.
The single man explained that he has previously relied on his brother for financial assistance, particularly in covering house rental costs.
However, with his brother set to move overseas to live with his wife, the user is now facing the prospect of shouldering the entire financial burden alone.
“Once my sibling leaves, another portion of his burden falls on me. I feel like I’m carrying a heavy weight, as if I have to support my own divorced wife. My mum is not my wife and I did not sign up to carry the burden my father should be carrying,” he wrote.
The post further described his father as financially irresponsible, alleging frequent requests for borrowed money.
He pointed out a stark contrast between his situation and that of his peers, whose parents are financially independent and able to support their children.
The post revealed that his family’s inheritance, including their home and savings, had been lost due to poor decision-making.
He also claimed his parents failed to provide him with access to higher education, leaving him with only a Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) qualification.
“Now I am shouldering all this while juggling a stressful job and other life commitments,” he said. The ongoing pressure has taken a severe toll on his personal life.
“I feel like I’m in prison. I don’t even go outside anymore. Work, sleep, eat, everything is at home,” he said, adding that he feels unable to socialise or pursue a relationship.
Seeking guidance, the man created a poll asking users to weigh in on his situation.
Out of 550 votes, an overwhelming 452 supported the idea of cutting off his parents to find peace, while 98 felt he should remain single and continue his financial support.
