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I am 19 and have been taking care of my mother since age 12. My mom developed a repetitive strain injury due to far too much computer work at her job as a physician. She ignored her pain and overtime allowed it to get worse and worse. She suffered from fatigue syndrome and presently her nervous system is very effected, along with having issues from herniated discs that will not be fixed with surgery etc (It's a very long diagnosis that her specialists are still working on understanding) At age 39, she was forced to quit her job, and seek treatment in our current location however the physical therapy she received here only made things worse. She currently travels four hours away to see the only doctors in the country that can aid her condition - To bring things to present day, she is unable to feed herself, cook, clean, turn handles in the shower/sinks, lift anything over half a pound (or less), drive, keep her neck in any sort of position for a prolonged amount of time, sit for a prolonged amount etc - the list goes on and on. We have no relatives in the US. Some women come to the house in the mornings to aid with her morning shower and breakfast, which is a big help to me. Because of all of this my mother is severely depressed. I have just returned from my first year of college which we made it through surprisingly easily -- it's been hard adjusting to living at home again and having to be responsible for another human being's welfare again. I can't help but snap sometimes and I just end up feeling so guilty afterward... I guess I'm just looking for some support, perhaps some tips on keeping patience with a loved one... - just overall advice.

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EE, good for you and getting that first year done! It must be quite stressful to be home for the summer and have to deal with mom's daily needs. I think you should take a step back. Let the caregivers continue to do their work. Help with what you are comfortable with, then let others take over. Mom's routine should not change because you are there for a couple of months. Know that she is very proud of you and that she wants you to live and enjoy your life while building and planning your future.
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((((((hugs))))) -seems like too much for someone your age. Is your mother on antidepressants? Surely her dr can help with her depression. You might look for a support caregivers group in your area for yourself. How did she manage while you were in college? Congratulations, btw, for successfully completing first year. Will you be able to continue with your studies? At your age you need to be living your own life, getting your education, connecting with people your own age. It almost sounds like your mum needs a facility as she is so handicapped. Hopefully other here will give you more suggestions,, meanwhile hats off to you for caring for your mother, but don't let that become your life. Caregiving tends to overwhelm.
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You are wonderful to be caring for her and you both have been through a lot at such a young age. Keep allowing and looking for help for your mom, because you are just getting started in your life and need time. Finishing college is wonderful, and with every year you continue to do so, it is well worth it, Congratulations on your first year! You and your mom deserve a wonderful life, and you can help her by continuing to further yourself. I agree with the others, keep the routines, and have a Dr examine your mom for depression. Good luck and you have our support!
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