Mother's Day Gift...please read...unusual circumstances...?

Question

My Mom is bipolar, hyperactive, and has OCD. She's just been admitted into an institution for her erractic behavior and could be there for three to six months. What do I get her for a Mother's Day gift that won't set off another episode of depression, anxiety, or continual handwashings? I was thinking about clothes as her weight goes up and down, up and down. She also likes jewelry, but I don't know what she is and isn't allowed to have. Serious answers only please!!

She has pictures of us and sometimes that makes her feel worse as I don't see her often and my 2 year old daughter is growing up and doesn't know her Grandma, so I send her pictures all the time. My Mom is in constant need of clothing and cigarettes as she can't afford them herself and her weight has been up and down up and down lately. I, too, try not to get involved (I visit four times a year...same state) and talk with the staff as this is a very heavy burden for me. I just want her to know that I think of her, pray for her, and that I care.

She doesn't read or watch television as she just can't focus or concentrate.

Answer 1

Phone calls and visits are the best visit from family for a person who is receiving treatment in a mental health facility.

For Mother's Day, I would take her a nice meal, and a carton of her favorite smokes. Facilities do not provide smoking materials and having something besides the institutional food is a nice change. Clothes are always nice but then so would be a nice comforter for her bed.

You cannot second guess how she will respond, basically depending on her mood for the day. Be prepared for her having a bad day or her refusing to interact, and if the day goes well celebrate that perhaps she is on her road to recovery.

You are NOT the one who sets off the episodes of depression, anxiety and OCD. They are part of her mental illness and she cannot control when they occur.

There is a saying in the field of mental health, "Who owns the problem?" You do not own the problem but you can make her day a little brighter by your presence.

Answer 2

You should call the nurses or Social Worker on her floor and ask them if they can suggest anything. They usually have good ideas and since they're with her so much, they'll know what she needs or what she's been interested in. They're the best people to advise you.
She's probably having her laundry done there, so it's always nice to have extra clothes; maybe a soft cardigan she can use with more than one outfit. It gets drafty in facilities sometimes. Or maybe a couple new tops since it's getting to be warmer weather.
It's nice of you to be so considerate in buying something for your mom. I hope she starts getting her condition under control soon.

Answer 3

If she has a hobby that might work. You could ask the where she is now and what you can or cannot bring to her. Also remember your visit with love, caring and support will be her best Mother's Day gift you could ever receive!

Answer 4

Ask the place that is treating her what she is allowed to have or have not. Just make sure she knows that you are there in her time of need. Maybe it would be nice to frame a picture of you and her. At a better time then she is in now.

Answer 5

Clothing is always a thoughtful gift and if she likes art maybe a book of some nice calming mountain or floral scenes. Good Luck!

Answer 6

My mother has mental issues as well, for years we have watched her and have taken care of her, we usually buy simple flowers in a vase, if she likes jewelry buy her some preatty things for her, just love her. she needs you.

Answer 7

i'd check about the jewelry. earrings are pretty and i'd maybe check with the institutation about their stipulations on what she can and can't have!