Should I be taking time to live my life?

Not to scare you, but I live in a condo and the guy at the end of the hall appears to have had no life outside of taking care of his elderly mom. His mom died last November and he's been a mess ever since. He's been using prescription drugs and starts to tear up at the mere mention of his mom's name. We've had to call the paramedics on him twice because he's sitting in a stupor in the parking lot or driving his car (last time into oncoming traffic) or people are driving him home because he's so impaired. If he continues on this path, he's going to either kill himself in his car or kill someone else (that usually happens with people who drink/drug and drive - the innocent person dies). He's a sad, sad case. I tried to help, but quickly saw he needed much more help than I could give him.

So as PStiegman says, you HAVE to build a life apart from your mom. You need friends and activities that will ground you and keep you engaged and involved in life when your mom is no longer here. If you don't need work for the money, then get out and do some volunteer work that is far removed from caregiving. Find a volunteer activity that is something you like. Or start going to church or get involved in some kind of group. You deserve a full life apart from your mom. Your family (other than your niece) just doesn't get it. But we do, so come back here for support.

You should seek balance in your life, that includes getting out with friends and pursuing a hobby and getting exercise in fresh air. You prevent burnout by having more than just home duties, expand your horizons.