Need suggestions to help my mom's anxiety

[Kari]

Hi Zizzle,

So sorry to hear that your mom is having a rough time. My thinking is that part of her "panic" is the upcoming travel. It sounds to me like her life is pretty settled, and a trip overseas will likely take her out of her comfort zone. Anyhow, that's just a thought based on my own experiences - whenever I'm going back "home" to Norway, there is always a lot of anticipatory anxiety that comes along with it. I'm going back in June, taking my fiance, his daughter and sister along to show them "my" country. Unfortunately, my older sisters are not doing well, so between MC management, trying to make sure my "new" family is having a good time, and "cheering" my sisters, my plate is overflowing.

As for your mother, is she used to being around kids? Even though it's her grandkids, it can still be quite taxing to be around kids for so many hours every day. I would say that my "limit" with my 3 grandkids is around 4 hours - then I start to look forward to them leaving :). I think the best thing you can do for her is to try and be there for her as much as you can. Quality time together with you will likely do wonders for her, and rather than having a lot of external activities planned for her, taking the time to listen to her and be with her is likely what she needs more than anything.

Anyhow, those are just my thoughts, and may not apply to your situation at all. I wish you lots of luck with the visit, and am keeping my fingers and toes crossed that it will all work out to be a wonderful time for all of you. I admire the way you're putting so much thought into trying to help your mom.

Love,
Kari