Arabic version: بن كول-إدواردز يناقش انقطاع العلاقات الأسرية على وسائل التواصل الاجتماعي

Ben Cole-Edwards, a 30-year-old from Bridgend, has been estranged from his mother for three years, marking a turbulent chapter in their relationship. According to BBC News, he has gained recognition as a trauma-informed coach, amassing nearly 900,000 followers on TikTok who seek his advice on similar issues.

The rise of public figures like Brooklyn Beckham and Olympic swimmer Adam Peaty, who reportedly didn’t invite his parents to his wedding, highlights a growing conversation around this topic. While research on family estrangement in the UK is limited, a U.S. survey indicated that up to 27% of American adults have severed ties with a family member.

Ben describes his decision to distance himself from his mother as a necessary step for his mental health. He reflects on his upbringing, noting that he once believed his childhood was typical but now recognizes it as emotionally unstable. His journey into self-exploration began as he prepared for fatherhood in 2020, prompting him to reassess his past and relationships.

Despite criticism online, Ben emphasizes that estrangement is often a last resort for many individuals. He states that most of his clients, primarily in their 20s and 30s, seek guidance due to emotional or physical disconnection from their families. His mother, Nicola, disputes claims of abuse, asserting that she provided for Ben and loved him deeply.

Psychologist Dr. Lucy Blake, who has researched family estrangement for over a decade, notes a significant shift in dialogue around this issue. She points out that while some may perceive estrangement as a trend, many individuals contemplate this decision for years. This evolving conversation is increasingly finding a voice on social media, allowing those affected to connect and share their experiences.