Just want you to know that I read too. At least you can always talk to us. Your mom reminds me a lot of my mom.

Do you have a therapist or counselor? If you do, could you ask them to help you explain your needs to your mom? I get pretty concerned any time someone is not allowed to talk about the things that are important to them. I know how hard it is to live that way. You should be able to talk freely, with your family and also with others that you trust. I wonder if you could find a support group too. Maybe if you ask your doctor(s) they could give you a referral.