It's normal to feel bothered or uncomfortable when you repeatedly hear comments about someone close to you, especially when it's about their appearance. Your feelings are valid, and you are not being paranoid for feeling this way. It's essential to recognize and respect your emotions.
Here are some suggestions on how to approach this situation:
Reflect on your feelings: Take some time to understand why these comments are bothering you. Is it because you feel like your friends are objectifying your mom or reducing her worth to her looks? Are you worried that their comments might change how you perceive your relationship with your mom? Identifying the underlying reasons can help you address the issue more effectively.
Communicate with your friends: If you feel comfortable, you can have an open and honest conversation with your friends about how their comments make you feel. Let them know that while you appreciate their positive sentiments, you would prefer if they didn't focus solely on your mom's appearance. They might not have intended to make you uncomfortable and may adjust their behavior once they are aware of its impact.
Talk to your mom: If you feel comfortable doing so, consider discussing your feelings with your mom. Let her know that you love and appreciate her for who she is, beyond her looks. Sharing your emotions can strengthen your bond and provide an opportunity for her to understand your perspective.
Set boundaries: If you feel uncomfortable when your friends make such comments, consider setting some boundaries by gently asking them not to make remarks about your mom's appearance in your presence. Friends who care about your feelings will respect your request.
Focus on the positive aspects: While the comments may be bothersome, try to remind yourself of the positive qualities your mom possesses that make her special to you. Appreciating her for her personality, love, support, and other non-physical attributes can help you maintain a healthy perspective.
Seek support: If you find that these feelings are persistently bothering you, consider talking to a trusted adult, counselor, or therapist about your emotions. They can provide guidance and help you navigate these feelings in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
Remember that it's okay to have complex emotions, and discussing them with the right people can be beneficial. Ultimately, your feelings are essential, and taking the time to understand and address them is an important part of emotional growth and well-being.