My mum is just not coping with my diagnosis

Hi Nadine,

I try and remember what a huge shock it is, and how everyone deals with the news differently.  If someone already has certain behaviours then it is unlikely that they will change.  You want to keep your Mum in your life so you might have to find a way to cope with her negativity.  

You have acknowledged that your Mum feels helpless.  I think sometimes it can be harder for partners and loved ones because they don't know what to do.  I try to involve the negative people in my life in my care.  I ask for help - it works sometimes:)  I accept offers of help- my Mum (in her 70's as well) comes to some appointments with me and has surprised me with her composure and level headedness.   Sometimes just asking for a hug can diffuse a tense situation for me and my Mum.  The people around us might not always behave as we would like them to but if we want to keep them close (and not distress ourselves too much) then we have to develop strategies to accept them as they are.  Would you feel comfortable working on strategies with a psychologist?  Your GP can create a Mental Health Plan that gives you a Medicare rebate for up to 10 sessions with a psychologist. Best of luck with this one.