My mom was diagnosed with fibromyalgia several years ago. For the past 5 years it appears that the pain has gotten worse and her emotional stability has suffered. Prior to the flare up 5 years ago, she was already diagnosed with bipolar disorder and depression (which she has been dealing with for the past 16 years). It has gotten to the point where the family has been so frustrated with her and the situations that she puts herself in. We understand that this is a chronic illness. However, I feel like she has allowed the disease to consume her and has become addicted to pain medication. I have suggested to her that she sees a therapist regularly to help her with stress management, since it is so closely tied to the disease. However, she doesn't go on a regular basis. I also encourage her to go to support groups so that she can be among people who are going through the same thing and could provide the true support and possibly recommendations on some ways of getting better, but she hasn't pursued those either. I have also recommended looking into alternative diets, going to yoga, getting a home care nurse through Medicare, she says she's going to look into it and puts for a little effort and then quits. It's getting to the point where she is pushing everyone away with her antics. Between the pre-existing disposition of personality, the depression, and the disease she's becoming unbearable to deal with. She often wants to move down with me (I live alone in a different city which requires me to travel) But I know that she just wants me to "fix" her problem when I know that it's going to take something deep within her to make things right. Plus, I don't feel like she needs to be taken care of as opposed to wants. I guess I'm at the point now where I think the addiction to medication has overridden her desire to live life independently. But then on the other hand I know that she needs to medication to some degree to make life tolerable. I really am in peril because I don't know what to do, neither do anyone in my family. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
mb hun
i understnad your situation from both ends to a degree. let me explain.
long stor short, i cared for mom in the last 2 years of her life. she to had many mental health issues as well as physical maladies. you have done all you can do for her. without her cooperation all you do is in vain. so i do undestand the pain and frustrations of dealing with a mom in such condition.
i am now in the position that i need some care from the illness (physical) that has attacked me. and i see the pain and frustration on my family members face and the expression of their concerns.
in my case i am doing what i can.....i am on this support site daily....helped save my life and continues to give me support. i move about as i'm able and make my meals, even was able to get to the community pool (with hubbys help)
i too am on pain medication, have been since last march 2010.....i am doing what i am able to do. unlike our moms who just could'nt/would'nt
your in a very painful situation and a feel for you honey i really do....wonder if mom would sometime like this.....? we also tried to get mom to use her computer to join support groups...everything you have tried we had tried also. to no avail.
others in the community may have their experiences to share that may be of some assist. may i suggest you may want to join some of the other groups available, chronic pain, depression, bipolar to name a few as you can get input from a broader part of the community. my very best to you honey
I really appreciate your feedback. And you are absolutely right. There is nothing that I can do unless she wants to be better.. Its just emotionally painful watching her slowly kill herself.