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LW, I see lots of solid support here for you taking care of yourself as a priority. It’s not just self interest – it puts you in a position of best being able to decide how to be helpful. Sometimes the best way to help both self and other is to set boundaries and let an other know clearly how her behavior is affecting you. This isn’t the same as distancing and withdrawing, it can be a way to help, albeit a painful and difficult one.
I hope you saw the letter from Patricia Schwarz. Psychosis can be a feature of a variety of conditions. From your letter, I wouldn’t necessarily assume schizophrenia and I would never assume anything from a limited number of encounters with the mental health professionals who are out there. In any case, however you proceed should be informed by an accurate and empathetic understanding of your mother’s experience, as opposed to a diagnostic label applied to her.
You lost something you deserved but never had in your childhood family. Your healing might best be served by the new attachments you create in your own, chosen relationships.
