The one person (my mum) who I felt more inclined to talk to and open up to has recently fallen very depressed and I am looking after her.
I have lots of friends and lots who would do a lot for me; i know this. However, I have never managed to tell anyone in real life about my experiences or be honest with them. I would never tell them what was upsetting me or even act upset in front of them.
I thought this was pretty normal and that most people were like this. I just wanted to know if it is?
sorry to be a bother

Not a bother.

I think it's something fairly common. People close to us are the people whose opinions matter most to us- and as a result, we don't like to bog them down with negative thoughts, because we are scared that it'll change those opinions for the worse, we think.

It can also feel strange to be very personal with a close friend, especially for someone more guarded. Putting up a front is common, but that doesn't make it a brilliant strategy, IMHO.

Take care.

[CedarS]

Many folks never or rarely tell anyone else what is going on.

You are in a difficult situation. Although initally you might feel anxious about telling anyone, I think eventually it will get easier, and the main thing is that you will get the help you need.

You burning out because you won't accept help ..... won't help you or your mother at all.

Asking for help, accepting help, finding folks to talk with...will help you and your mum.

You aren't a bother at all. You have a right to ask for help and ideas.