I was drowning in sorrow. I was ready to give up on life, literally. Then I found this website. There are people here who really helped me with role playing answers and positive encouragement. It was scary for me, but I put them into play and things worked out for me. My mom's reactions were both what I expected and what I did not, but for the most part I took the initiative to control my life. It's easier to do that once one realizes he or she is not alone. On this forum I have found so many similar situations, some that mirror my life almost to a tee.
I am fortunate that I found this site, and I plan to come here regularly to learn more. This is not just to benefit myself, but also help to influence my mom to have a happier life. If she does not want to do this, I also know it is not my fault. I am a person who has clinical depression and anxiety. My life was truly hanging in the balance before coming here. Now with the support of this site, I can feel confident that I have a place to turn to that is nonjudgmental and encouraging. Thank you for everyone who encouraged me. I truly appreciate you.
This website has helped me see that some of things my parents are doing, they are in their 90's and still living in their single family home in the suburbs, is pretty much the norm for their age. I've never been around to help anyone who was elderly, so all this was new to me. And it doesn't come second nature.