My mom and I have been her primary support since dad died two years ago, and lately I think we've gotten too enmeshed — she calls me for everything and I can't say no because I know she's lonely, but I'm starting to feel resentful and then guilty about the resentment. We both miss him and we both need each other but this doesn't feel sustainable for either of us.
More people experience this than they realize.
Grief has created a bond that feels both essential and imprisoning, where love and duty have become indistinguishable.
“Where Are You with Pet loss and grief?”
If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.