For most of my life I felt I had a very great (very normal) family unit. A few years ago everything changed when my mother had a psychotic episode. She was once independent, active and passionate, but now its like she has no life anymore. She’s extremely unsure of herself, too anxious to work, doesn’t have the drive to do things or even know what she wants really.

She’s my mum and I love her so much, but so often its exhausting and unenjoyable spending time with her. The conversation is so one sided and its often like she’s only trying to go through the social motions.

The family tries to get her active; take up hobbies, volunteer or just find anything to occupy time and maybe get some passion back. She quits often due to being unenthused and/or anxious. 

I hate seeing someone I’ve always idolised be so lost. Its been years at this point, it feels like we’re constantly going in circles trying to help find anything to fill her time. I’m young and I want to live my life, move away for work, but this whole situation fills me with guilt.

I’d love to hear if anyone has had something similar with a family member or someone close to them. I don’t know how to help her find purpose - I just want her to be happy and confident again.