Aw, Meg, I am so sorry. You're not alone. My parents asked me to stay to save money, plus we all got along famously. Since my dad got sicker and died last year, my mother has been next to impossible. Honey, I'm 52 years old and STILL listening to some of her crap. She is on Buspar, but takes it off and on because she doesn't feel better. She has side effects from shingles so now it's affecting her walk. She refused to go to another doctor, I have to drag her to the hairdressers, she dislikes people who disagree with her. In fact, the other day, after I commented on a great TV commercial (having been in advertising years ago), told me I was no longer as imaginative as I was. Now that I'm not working, I do all the cooking, cleaning etc. She wants no outside help "in her house". My older brother, who also moved back in to help, just takes off Fri-Mon, and deserts me. I know I complain to my friends sometimes, but then I realize, it's up to ME not to take it seriously. I know she has a problem. She is a grown adult and has to learn to deal with it. I can't force her to do what she doesn't want to. Period. My dad and I were more alike, so I miss him terribly. Don't misunderstand, I love my mom. She is a dear, sweet person. Like Karen's, our house was always open to everyone. But she needs more help that she refused to get. Can you speak with your dad when the 2 of you are alone? Maybe if you talk with him, it'll help. Please realize it's NOT you! DON'T let her change your personality. You are NOT worthless or unloved. Just remember that you may have to hold your tongue because arguing with a depressed person, makes things worse. They do not think rationally.
Please know that you are very much loved here on PT, and that we are here for you whenever you need it. You must build yourself up in order to survive, and you will. {HUGS} I hated talking about myself here, but I wanted you to know you're not alone and it can happen at any age