So as many of you know I have been looking into getting my NPD mother out of my home. While she helped around the house with chores and bills (much needed) it was her constant unpredictable and explosive temper. Had to call the Police. I've talked to a couple of attorneys who aren't keen on evicting 'mom'. Here in the South, old people come first. I don't have a POA so can't force anything. One lawyer wanted me to do a conservatorship, which means it would be back to my responsibility to vetting a place, getting her on a list, paying for it, until when and if social programs kicked in and the wait list could be 2 - 3 years for Senior Housing. She's super capable so I resent that she is intentionally forcing me to do all this extra work, on top of my job, house, cancer dog and everything else. Now I see she has some sort of barricade against her door and hasn't been out for a couple of days. Knowing how cunning she is and smart, I'm betting she bought a mini-fridge and is keeping it up there, she's very strong, stronger than me actually. She has her own bathroom and shower. She told me I was going to have to force her out and I guess she is taking a stand. Is it me or is this legitimate crazy? That she has locked herself in? By the way still looking for attorneys. No one will call me back. One attorney told me she's mentally ill and no one will force her to leave.
She has explained her experience.
Please read her long profile.
She has a mom that is abusive.
I am happy to hear that you are not following your mother’s distorted view on religion!
So, are you saying that your mom turns on the charm, the police are fooled by her deception?
If you catch your mom on camera with her despicable behavior, how can they argue with that?
Are you saying that the police won’t do their job as law enforcement officers because they don’t want to be seen as people who bully the elderly?
That wouldn’t be bullying. For the record, there are elderly people who are nuisances, disturb the peace, break laws and so on. They get arrested just like anyone else who breaks the law.
Sendhelp makes an excellent point about religion.
Please listen to me. Some people like your mother use religion to punish people. This is not authentic Christianity.
You do need to break free from her and her misuse of religion in order to live a healthy life.
I am curious. What was your mom’s upbringing? Was she raised in an overly strict and overbearing religious family?
Your mom is a religious fanatic. She could have a mental illness that is causing her to be delusional.
At this point in time we are concerned about you. Your mom’s welfare comes after you find peace.
If you have any guilt, please remove it. You have done more than your share to help her. It’s time that you begin to find yourself and have a healthy life.
How old did you say that you are?
"It sounds to me like there is serious hell to pay now. Yes, it will be VERY hard. It will be hell. And then it will be over. She'll be gone. If you are serious about this and get the right kind of help, you will not fail. You CAN do this. But it must be what you really want to do. And you must believe that you deserve a life of your own."
Dear Abused:
Yes, you are abused. Which is an illness you carry, and what makes you stuck.
The attorneys are a fast study, and can understand where you are at now. Sad to say, you may not be coming across as believable. Get help for abused people first. Are you surprised the situation has carried on so long?
The attorneys could do their best to help you, and you, having this illness, would not follow through, would even turn on them and sue for the help they give you. Even the police are aware of these family dynamics. That you are so enmeshed with Mom, you will turn on anyone helping you, as you are afraid, terrified of making changes. People who have called police for getting help can even shoot at the police to 'protect' Mom. Just now, you are asking if it is selfish of you to want to be free, and to live alone.
Do you have the same religious beliefs as your Mother? If so, (and it is not necessary that we know), there are organizations that help a person break free from religious oppression, or even cults. That may be your problem in breaking free? You may think she knows more than you or anyone with some common sense. Enter your mother's known religion name, and add cult busters to research, gather information. You both are adults, there will not be anyone coming to your door to save you from the prison you are self-commiting to.
We can see your message.
Whew! You sound worn out. I am going to try to give you some ideas.
You say that you feel like no one believes you. That is frustrating. I wonder if you recorded her behavior, what would happen? A picture is worth a thousand words.
Install cameras in your home.
I had dogs and cats that I dearly loved in the past and when they suffer it is heartbreaking and the vet bills are very expensive!
Is there any hope for your dog? If there isn’t, as sad as it is, you will have to make the tough decision to put her down.
I don’t want another animal either because it is too hard for me to go through watching them suffer when they get older and having to put them down. I just can’t face that again either.
Yes, live alone afterwards. Take care of you. You deserve it.
How long has your mom lived with you?
What about what Sendhelp suggested? Invite the police to see the barricades on your mom’s door?
Please respond to our thoughts. Like I said, I really do not wish to be harsh. I only want to help you.
We do not sit in judgment of you. I truly understand. I had a difficult time when my mom lived with me. She lived with me for many years until I couldn’t take anymore.
If you would like to say something, please do. We are here to listen. Vent away!
Once again, we are on the same page. I couldn’t agree with you more! Great advice!
Depending on where she lives, the law may require an actual eviction. I would start the process of eviction.
This woman won’t willingly leave on her own. She’s certifiably crazy! Or if I want to choose the ‘politically correct’ term, she is suffering from ‘mental illness.’ Whatever...she needs to go!
If I had to eat canned soup and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches due to not having her financial assistance, I would do it!
You say:
"My mother is mentally ill and has barricaded herself inside her room for x days with no response". "I need for someone to check on her welfare." They will come, they will document her issues. They will be required to set eyes on her, interview her. Maybe break down her door if she doesn't open it. They will be kind.
If they take her in for observation, or any reason, do not take her back. Ask the doctor to order a safe placement for her, such as a board and care.
She will be coming out soon, if even to get her prescriptions filled and delivered. So you don't go to her door at all.
The whole situation is beyond crazy, but only you can do something to change it. Give her a 30 day notice to vacate your premises, in writing(if that's what you really want), and if necessary(and if she wants your help), you can help find her a new place to live. Oh and by the way, who the hell cares if the "attorneys aren't keen on evicting mom". She needs to be evicted. The sooner the better. You have allowed this mess to take place,(by allowing her to move in with you, when you knew better not to)so now only you can fix it. Quit making excuses and get her out(again if that's what you really want).
I hope that you won’t mind me speaking frankly.
Your story reads like a freakin nightmare! I took a moment to read your profile and messages.
It looks like you have been dealing with this mess since 2015! Why? Just why would you put up with this crap for so long?
I realize it takes time to process your emotions. Take that time now and move forward.
I live in the south too, New Orleans to be exact and I would never accept the abuse that you have for as long as you have.
Yes, you may feel stuck and you did reach out for help with an attorney. I would speak to every attorney in your town until you found one that is empathetic to your needs!
I seriously think that you should make an appointment with a professional therapist, not a life coach but a genuine therapist that is trained to deal with life’s tough situations because you need to sort your emotions out.
You need to speak to someone who is objective in this matter because you are too close to the situation to think clearly.
Obviously, you need guidance for yourself. You could also benefit from speaking to a social worker to help you plan for your mom’s future.
Absolutely proceed with an eviction. If she wishes to remain locked in her room, so be it! At least she won’t be bothering you. Enjoy the peace and quiet!
I am not trying to be harsh. I only wish for you to settle this issue with your mom once and for all.
Once you close the door on this nightmare, NEVER open it up again and live your life for you!
Best wishes to you.