Everything else that comes with it!!

Ok .... here's Aunty Shirl reading you the riot act!!!

Just for starters YOU ARE NOT USELESS so don't you let any of us hear you say that again - that's it, a very small riot act!!!!

Your family love you and want to support you in every way ... the only problem is that they just don't really know what to say and do, so they are saying and doing too much.  It's a shocking feeling for parents to see their child going through a "life and death" (for want of another word) situation and they are possibly scared shitless, as you are.

How about sitting down with your Mum, Dad and Sister and getting this off your chest - even show them your blog here.  Ok the session will probably end up in tears - but please not angry tears.  Just explain to them that as much as you love and appreciate them and all they are doing for you, you feel smothered and you want to be able to maintain your independance even though you are in their home.  Remind your Mum (nicely of course) that you are still "the mother"  and if you feel that your girls need telling off, then you will do it.

Next thing .... how old are the children - both yours and your sister's?  Don't shut them out, have a talk with them - not at the same time as the one with the adults.  Children pick up on adults moods and fears and that in itself can make them feel very insecure.  Tell them as much about what you are going through as you think they will understand, I'm sure that you will be surprised how they react.  Children are very resiliant, and the fact that you are including them and treating them like"grown-ups" will make things easier. 

I'm glad you came on-line to vent .... we are all here to support you in every way we possibly can.  Let us know how things are going for you and remember you have to take care of Number One ..... you!!!

Luv ... Shirl XX