i’m worried about my mum.

[Guest_06971124]

hi all,

recently we’ve found out we have to move house again (11th time in 15 years) and my mum is super stressed. shes been diagnosed with depression and is divorced. im her only child and have had a lot of family problems recently so ive just been staying with her. im super worried about her because sometimes she’ll just break down and cry and i cant really help her much. she has a lot of friends to help her but she keeps saying theres no one. i dont know what to do because ive never been in a situation like this and she has a psych, but she hasnt seen them for a bit. she’ll start crying randomly and i feel horrible, but i can only do so much. she never does this on purpose, but i cant keep living like this because im not her psychologist and her mental state right now is not helping me, but i cant go to my dads either. dont get me wrong, shes one of my favourite people in the world, but its just too much right now. i know she needs support but i just can’t provide her with that.

thanks.

[Picture]

Hello - that sounds hard trying to help your Mum. It may be useful to call KidsHelpline for advice. It would be good if your Mum could go to the gp or psychologist to have her mental health addressed. Would it be possible to say to her that you are worried about her and would like her to see a GP? Is there a trusted adult you could confide in that would be able to help your Mum? I hope the situation improves for you both

[Summer Rose]

Hello and welcome to the forum.

I’m really sorry that your mum is experiencing depression and that you are struggling to care for her.

Mum is really lucky to have you, as it’s obvious how much you love her. But it’s also obvious that you are in a really difficult situation and ALL of your feelings are valid. You are not her psych and it is not your job to “fix” her. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed and to have your own needs.

The emotional load you are carrying is enormous and it would really help if you could share it. Is there anyone in your family who you could talk to and ask for help? This could be an aunty, a cousin or grandma. Perhaps one of mum’s friends could help to provide her with additional support? If you let people know you are struggling they may offer to do more.
I also think it would be a good idea to speak with your GP. You need support and there are supports available in the community (some 230,000 people under 25 care for a parent). Your GP can help you find local services.

You could also contact Carers Australia and explore the support services they offer.

I am a carer for my adult child who lives with OCD, so I have an idea of what you’re going through and I am sending you light. It can get better. 
Kind thoughts to you 

[ViolettaZ]

Hi there,

Thank you so much for opening up. What you’ve written sounds really heavy, and I’m very sorry that you’re dealing with all of this. 

I can hear how much you love your mom, but you’re right, you can’t be her psychologist, and you shouldn’t have to carry this on your own.

In addition to Summer Rose’s advice, if you feel comfortable, you might consider speaking with your school social worker or counselor.  This could help you talk through some of these emotions and explore possible next steps. Another valuable option is Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), where you can speak with a counsellor, and the phone lines are open 24/7.

You’re always welcome to come back and share more:)

Warm regards🤗
Violetta Z