The book is excellent. I am reading it too. That is a good step, Jane, continuing to nourish your spirit is always good!
Wow! Thank you for that. Greatly appreciated. Sometimes I just need a little 'pep' talk from someone. I'm looking into Oprah's webcast right now. Not sure if I can talk about that or not on here. I've just ordered the book and will be watching the web videos. Looks interesting and insightful. Take care all. :-)
Oh I have SO been exactly where you are! EXACTLY! Fuzzy was is correct in stating that "you have to distance yourself and not feel guilty about it". That is the word-guilt. It is absolutely necessary that you not feel guilty. Your mother is a grown woman and though she is your mother, you must realize that you are NOT her.
My mother was suffered from anxiety and depression all her life. When I was younger I suffered from depression. Why? Because my mother was depressed. She and I were extremely close too. As I got older and through lots of therapy, I realized that her problems are not mine. It's hard...she's your mom and you love her. The best thing you can do for yourself is take time for yourself. Meditation helped me greatly. Before visits with my mother, I envisioned a white light around me.
Be there for her and support her, but remember that in order for you to care for a loved one, you need to care for yourself.
Best,
Liv
I think you already know. You said it " I'm my own person", But, it's hard watching a parent go through this. I understand, been there... Also to the point of making myself ill over it. So, what good did that do?? If this is making you sick then there has to be a way that you are going to have to distance yourself and not feel guilty about it. Look at it like " what good am I to my mom or to anyone if im ill". Just take a step back for awhile, you can still be there but be there for yourself and take care of you.
Stay in touch and I'm here if you need to talk.