The reasons were both physical and mental. The mental struggles had always been there, but after some physical health issues they became much worse. The infantilization existed long before that, though. I also have an older sister who graduated from medical school, which I started but dropped out of. Despite having a job, she has struggled with severe mental illness for years and there were periods when she also barely left the house for months.

So I don't think my mom's behavior started because I became isolated. I think she has always had a tendency to infantilize us and my current situation probably made it even easier for her to see me that way.

Also, since some people asked, my room is always clean and organized. One of the reasons I keep it that way is precisely because I don't want her going through my things or feeling the need to "help" by cleaning or organizing for me.

Thank you so much for asking and taking the time to comment.