Families & Friends Of Addicts Support Group
Addiction affects more than just the individual. This community is dedicated to the families and friends of individuals suffering from any form of addiction. Mental health professionals are increasingly considering alcoholism and addiction as diseases that flourish in and are enabled by family systems. Family members react to the addicted person with particular behavioral...
Hi all,
I've worked incredibly hard the last 6 years in therapy to build strong boundaries with my Mother, a serious addict. We recently found out she has late stage ovarian cancer. I always knew it was likely she wouldn't live a very long life due to her lifestyle, but never expected this route.
I currently live on the West coast and my Mom is back in the Mid-west. I typically don't stay with her when I'm in town and prefer to have my own space. This time she's asked me to stay with her and I feel obligated because she's very sick. Has anyone had experience dealing with boundary reinforcement in this type of situation?
I've worked incredibly hard the last 6 years in therapy to build strong boundaries with my Mother, a serious addict. We recently found out she has late stage ovarian cancer. I always knew it was likely she wouldn't live a very long life due to her lifestyle, but never expected this route.
I currently live on the West coast and my Mom is back in the Mid-west. I typically don't stay with her when I'm in town and prefer to have my own space. This time she's asked me to stay with her and I feel obligated because she's very sick. Has anyone had experience dealing with boundary reinforcement in this type of situation?
If she is in late stage with cancer? spend time with her...try staying if you think you can and leave if you need to. She is probably being given drugs now with hospice care...to keep her comfortable. Perhaps replacing the heroin?
I am very sorry for her illness. I am glad you will have the chance to visit with her. Perhaps this is giving her some clarity.
If you don't feel comfortable in some situation, you certainly have a right to call her on it....if she can't deal with that, you are no worse off than before. I think I would feel badly if I didn't try to spend some time with her....but I would never risk my heart if I felt the situation was too toxic....so only you can answer...but I am glad you are going.
I wish you peace, confidence and love.