Mental Illness

Hi Everyone:

I'm hoping I can get some advice/introspection into a family situation I have. My entire childhood, I suspected my mother had a mental illness. Her actions and moods have always been very erratic. She will be fine one moment and fiercely fly off the handle the next. She is often very meticulous about placing various objects (silverware, clothes, etc.) in particular places and "checking on" these objects minutes, hours or days later. Unfortunately, she was physically abusive with my siblings and I (i.e. beating us with belts for 20-30 minutes). Has anyone else ever experienced this and what have you done? I know my mother would *never* seek therapy because, despite my repeated attempts, she refuses to see the problem. I have tried talking to other family members but many of them have drug/alcohol/martial problems and are, understandably, self-consumed right now. I feel very lonely, very vulnerable and I'm not sure what's best.

Re: Mental Illness

I'm sorry to hear what you went through. You cannot make another person get treatment if they don't want to. I would suggest that you speak to a counselor yourself. Maybe you can remove yourself from your Mother's life and learn how to heal from your past. Good Luck!

Re: Mental Illness

i am in the psychiatric field. you have fm.

Re: Mental Illness

Thanks for the support