I have experienced the same thing with my mom in the past. I ended up sitting down with her at the kitchen table and explained to that I really needed some space to figure things out. I needed professional help because I couldn't get myself out of my own head enough to figure out what was wrong. I asked for her patience and would let her know when I was ready to share things with her. I also ensured her that it was not her fault and I loved her. I think partent feel they failed if they are not able to fix everything for their children. I have to consiously remember to share things with her so I hold up my end of the bargin. I don't share everything because it's not all her business. Our relationship has grown greatly through this.

One of my friends and his partents have set up a code. When he calls them mom and dad they can be regular ol' parents. When he calls them by their first names they treat each other like independent adults...like you would a friend. This changes the boundries between them. His parents also know that what he wants to talk about is serious and it changes their listening and response style.

Does that make sense???

I wish you patience in dealing with your parents. They could be really good support if you can find a way to communicate the role you would like them to have and hopefully they will be willing to participate in a way that works for you...and them