How do I deal with my a mentally unstable Mother?

I can understand your frustration, my mother is an alcoholic and is also very paranoid. She too can be very mean and unpredictable if she feels no one is catering to her or supporting her in every way. I have swam oceans trying to help her from giving her a place to live when she became homeless to taking care of her (im a nurse) after her many overdoses and she always comes back with some sob story about how no one will help her and she was left in the streets by me. Ive even had family friends call me and ask why I wont help her because she calls them and lies so I understand how hard this is on you. You want to help and your good intentions are being twisted in her mind. Remember that you can only give so much and while it is hard to swallow because shes your mom, you cannot help ppl that dont want to put in the effort themselves. Trust me, I did everything for my mom (I even took custody of my siblings at 19) and still it wasnt enough to make her shape up. You have done the right thing by offering your help when she is ready but you cannot let her issues affect your family. You have a child to care for that is number 1. My mom also blames my Dad for her probs because he cheated but you live and learn and get on with life so her dwelling wont help anything but she wont care. You just have to give her space and see what happens but really try to calm your mind and know you have done all that you can. If she seems suicidal or you can prove that she is not capable you could commit her to treatment and they may be able to help her, it hurts but honestly if it saves her it is worth it. Im sorry you have to go through this I know how hard it is. If you need to talk feel free to email me, a support system can make all the difference in how you feel. Good luck and God Bless