wack job mother in law?

Question

How do I deal with a crazy mother in law? I have to work with her 4 days a week. We used to really get along until her son and I got really serious. I love him very much, but his mother is seriously bi-polar or something. Some days she is in a fabulous mood, others she is like Satan on acid. This is all regardless of the fact that I constantly walk on egg shells to ensure I don't do anything to set her off. She turns rabid at the drop of a hat! Her own son even recognizes it, and yes, he has confronted her but then she she says crap like "you care about her more than you do me" or she just gets super ugly and defensive with him. I love her son more than anything. We have been together for 3 years... But she makes it soo hard. Can I get some tips on how to handle this??? I know I shouldn't let this get to me, but it is devistating.

Answer 1

grow some nuts and tell the bich off!

Answer 2

There is a possibility that she may be changing life. That will make a woman moody and very irritable. If she is in her late forties or older, that could be her problem. Tell her son to suggest that she see a doctor, because she has been unusually irritable with him. It is not your place to get involved.

Otherwise, there isn't much that can be done unless she actually wants to get help for herself. You may just need to find another job.

Answer 3

Sounds like momma has taken the back seat and doesn't like it too much. Be consistent and stand your ground, 3 years doesn't go away, especially if he defends you also. I am sure she will soon get the hint that you aren't going anywhere and neither is her whining. My mother in law was the same way, however, once we both stood the ground together; she backed off fast. I hope she will do the same for you. Best of Luck!

Answer 4

She seems upset that you're the #1 woman in your bf's life and she isn't. I don't know what kind of working relationship you have with her, but you have the right to tell her to cut it out.

"Stop it, right now." She'll get defensive and ask you what you mean, or she was only just trying to tell you blah blah. "I know what you were saying to me. I heard you loud and clear. I like you, and I would never talk to you like that! And I won't allow you to speak to me like that anymore, so stop it."

And walk away from the room. Don't allow her to talk her way out of it, don't answer any of her questions on it. "That's all I have to say." Repeat that phrase until she gives up trying to get in the last word. You'll get stone silence for a loooong time. But you'll get her (grudging) respect. In the meantime, say good morning, good night, please and thank you. And eventually, she'll start talking again.

She's abusing you because she thinks she can, and because she's angry. It's time to show her that her behavior is unacceptable.