Finding out you were adopted in later life
Introduction
Finding out you were adopted in later life can be a life-changing revelation. It can trigger a range of emotions, from confusion and anger to relief and curiosity. Coping with this news can be challenging, but there are several strategies that can help you navigate this emotional journey.
The first step is to seek support. Talking to friends, family members, or a therapist can help you process your emotions and come to terms with your new reality. In the UK, there are several organizations and support groups that can provide emotional and practical support to adoptees, such as the British Association for Adoption and Fostering (BAAF) and the Adoption Search Reunion (ASR).
It is also important to gather information about your adoption. This can help you understand the circumstances surrounding your adoption, your birth parents, and your legal rights. In the UK, adoptees have the right to access their adoption records and find out information about their birth parents. The first step is to contact the agency or local authority that facilitated your adoption and request your records.
Another coping strategy is to connect with other adoptees. This can help you feel less alone and provide a sense of community. There are several online forums and social media groups for adoptees where you can connect with others who have gone through similar experiences. In addition, there are several national and local organizations that offer support groups and social events for adoptees.
It is also important to be kind to yourself and give yourself time to process your emotions. Finding out you were adopted can be a shock, and it can take time to come to terms with this news. Take care of yourself by engaging in self-care activities, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.
Finally, if you are interested in finding your birth parents, it is important to approach this process with caution. It can be a difficult and emotional journey, and it is important to be prepared for any potential outcomes. In the UK, there are several organizations that can help you with the search process, such as the ASR and the International Social Service (ISS).
In conclusion, finding out you were adopted in later life can be a challenging experience, but there are several coping strategies that can help you navigate this emotional journey. Seeking support, gathering information, connecting with other adoptees, being kind to yourself, and approaching the search process with caution are all important steps in coping with this news. Remember, you are not alone, and there are resources available to help you on this journey.