It's essential to remember that diagnosing mental health conditions requires a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified professional. That said, I can give you some possible explanations for your mother's behavior based on the information you provided.
Narcissism: Narcissism is a personality disorder characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. People with narcissistic tendencies may often blame others for their problems, exhibit grandiose behavior, and have difficulty taking responsibility for their actions. If your mother shows consistent patterns of narcissistic behavior beyond just losing things, it might be worth considering this as a possibility.
Delusions: Delusions are false beliefs that are firmly held despite evidence to the contrary. In this case, your mother's accusations about people stealing her things or conspiring against her could be signs of delusional thinking. Delusions are often associated with various mental health conditions, such as certain types of psychosis or schizophrenia.
Other factors: There could be other explanations for your mother's behavior, such as stress, anxiety, or even age-related cognitive decline. Sometimes, individuals with memory issues may misplace items and then create stories to fill in the gaps due to their difficulty in recalling events accurately.
It's essential to approach this situation with empathy and understanding. If you're concerned about your mother's behavior and its impact on her well-being and relationships, here are some steps you can take:
Encourage professional evaluation: Suggest that your mother visit a mental health professional for an evaluation. A qualified therapist or psychiatrist can assess her symptoms, provide a proper diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment if needed.
Open communication: Try to have a calm and compassionate conversation with your mother about her behavior and how it affects you and others. Avoid confrontation, accusation, or dismissive language. Express your concern for her well-being and your desire to help.
Document instances: If you notice a pattern of her losing things and making accusations, keeping a record of specific incidents might be helpful for the mental health professional during the evaluation process.
Support network: Encourage your mother to maintain social connections and a support network of friends or family members who can provide emotional support and understanding.
Educate yourself: Learn more about the potential underlying causes of her behavior and the best ways to support someone with those conditions.
Remember that seeking professional guidance is essential to gain a clearer understanding of your mother's situation and to provide her with the appropriate help.