My MIL Moved in ‘for an Emergency’—Now She Refuses to Leave

One reader shared a story about a mother-in-law who moved in and never left. Months later, her presence has taken over the household, leaving the daughter-in-law questioning her marriage, her space, and her own sanity.

Hey Bright Side,

My name is Jenna, I’m 36, and my husband Tom and I have been together for 8 years. My mother-in-law moved in with us “just for 2 weeks” after her bathroom flooded. That was 7 months ago.

At first, it was fine. She cooked, helped with our kid, and constantly told us how much she appreciated us. But then, she started... redecorating.

She replaced my curtains, rearranged my pantry, and even told me my sofa “didn’t match her energy.” I complained to my husband, and he just said, “She’s lonely, let’s give her time.”

Now it’s gotten worse. She’s changed her mailing address to our house. Last night, I overheard her on the phone saying she’s “officially moving in for good” and that she “can’t live without her favorite son nearby.”

I realized this isn’t temporary: she has no intention of leaving. My husband admits he enjoys keeping her company and feels guilty about her being alone.

I’m left living in the same house I helped pay for, but it doesn’t feel like mine anymore. The space I shared with my husband has been taken over, and I feel trapped, powerless, and confused.

I love my husband, but I can’t keep living like this. Was I wrong to expect a temporary stay to stay temporary?

— Jenna

Thank you, Jenna, for sharing your story. What you’re experiencing is difficult, confusing, and emotionally draining. It’s normal to feel hurt and unsure when someone refuses to respect the space you’ve built with your spouse.

Here is what we think, Jenna.

1. Validate your feelings, because intrusion is real and impactful.
Feeling trapped or resentful doesn’t make you selfish. Your home is your sanctuary, and it’s natural to feel your personal space and emotional boundaries have been crossed. Accepting that your frustration is valid is the first step toward addressing the issue.

2. Re-establish communication with your husband.
Even with his mother involved, honest dialogue with your spouse is essential:

• Explain how her extended stay affects your mental and emotional health.
• Discuss practical solutions for helping his mother without sacrificing your home life.
• Frame it around partnership: you need him as an ally, not just a bystander.

3. Plan actionable steps to reclaim your home.
You can support his mother while still protecting your life and marriage:

• Set clear timelines for her stay, and stick to them.
• Allocate private space and time for you and your husband.
• Seek outside advice from family counseling, legal guidance, or support networks if needed.

Taking action doesn’t make you unkind. It ensures your household, marriage, and well-being aren’t lost in the process.

What would you do in this situation? Read the story of an employee who refused to do three people’s jobs for one salary. It’s a real-life tale about standing up for yourself, setting boundaries at work, and insisting on fair treatment.

• I Refuse to Do Three People’s Jobs for One Salary