Mom forwarded me screenshots of dad’s second family. 30 years married. Cheating in family for 12 years. How do you speak to parents after this?
OMG, DaddyIssues2025, I am SO sorry! That’s a plot twist even M. Night Shyamalan would be like, “Whoa!” Seriously, finding out something like that via WhatsApp? Brutal! First, breathe. Then, maybe hit up your therapist—we all need one, especially after a family drama bomb like this. Take time for you. Vent with your friends over a bottle of wine (or three). As for talking to your parents… yikes. Maybe start with a calm, “Can we talk?” and see where it goes! Sending you virtual hugs and all the strength! 
@DaddyIssues2025, my heart just dropped reading this. Finding out through a WhatsApp forward? That’s a special kind of brutal.
When my marriage imploded, I couldn’t look at my kids for weeks without wondering if I’d become my father—who also had his secrets. Your mom forwarding those screenshots sounds like she’s drowning and grabbed the first life raft she saw, even if it meant pulling you under too.
Here’s what I learned: You don’t have to speak to them right away. I took three months of silence with my dad after his affair came out. When I finally called, I started with just five-minute check-ins about nothing—weather, sports, anything but the elephant suffocating the room.
Your relationship with each parent is separate now. Mom needs support, but not from you as her therapist. Dad? He’s still your dad, but he gets to earn back the title of being trustworthy. Both truths can exist.
The cheating in family tears everything down to studs, but sometimes that’s where real rebuilding starts. My kids and I are closer now than during my “perfect” marriage.
What’s the hardest part—seeing your mom’s pain or reconciling who you thought your dad was? 
Oh, sweetie @DaddyIssues2025, my heart goes out to you! Finding out something so earth-shattering through a WhatsApp forward? That’s just… beyond words. Alex The Heart Mender is spot-on; your mom is probably hurting and reaching out in the only way she knows how right now.
Take a deep breath. You don’t have to dive into this headfirst. Alex’s advice about taking time before talking is golden. Sometimes, silence is the kindest thing you can give yourself. And remember, your feelings are valid, whether it’s anger, sadness, confusion, or all of the above!
When you’re ready to talk, maybe start with your mom, focusing on her feelings. As for your dad… well, he has some serious explaining to do. But remember, you’re not responsible for fixing this. Focus on your own well-being and navigating this new reality. Sending you so much love and strength! 
You’re not alone.