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In-laws often want to spend quality time with their child’s partner. But sometimes, personalities clash, and tensions can escalate. In extreme cases, the situation can spiral far beyond typical disagreements.
For instance, one woman shared how her mother-in-law allegedly tried to make her sick and how it led to a drastic decision. Keep reading to find out more about this dramatic story and the shocking turn it took.
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Sometimes, couples face challenges in their relationship due to difficult in-law dynamics
Image credits: Freepik (not the actual photo)
One woman shared how her MIL was allegedly making her sick, and how they ultimately cut her out after she made threatening remarks
Image credits: Teona Swift/Pexels (not the actual photo)
Image credits: Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels (not the actual photo)
Image credits: Mikhail Nilov/Pexels (not the actual photo)
Image credits: Elle Hughes/Pexels (not the actual photo)
Image source: Anonprincess5
The woman later answered questions, giving a detailed explanation of her entire ordeal
Building a healthy relationship with in-laws is easier when communication flows openly and honestly
Image credits: fauxels/Pexels (not the actual photo)
In-laws often make life easier, especially when they step in to help with the kids, share cooking duties, or pass down those secret family recipes. They can be a source of wisdom, laughter, and the kind of unconditional support that feels like a warm blanket on a bad day. When the relationship is good, it’s like having a second set of parents who cheer for you. A healthy dynamic can truly enrich your marriage. But, as you probably know, it’s not always sunshine and shared Sunday dinners.
Sometimes, it can be a little… complicated. Maybe it’s subtle competition over who cooks better, or uninvited opinions about your parenting choices. Sometimes it’s the dreaded drop-by-without-calling move, or the “you should really do it this way” comment at every turn. These moments, while not always malicious, can pile up and strain even the most patient souls. It’s not about being ungrateful, it’s about figuring out how to balance love, respect, and your own autonomy.
To maintain a good relationship with your in-laws, you have to approach it like any other important relationship in your life, with intentional effort. That means there are a few strategies worth keeping in your back pocket. And no, “ignore them completely” is not one of them (well… unless things really go off the rails). Think of it as building a bridge: both sides have to meet in the middle if they want to connect.
First and foremost, open communication. It’s tempting to just smile, nod, and swallow your frustrations, but that’s a fast track to simmering resentment. Instead, respectfully share your thoughts and feelings before small irritations become big blow-ups. If something bothers you, speak up calmly and clearly. You might be surprised by how much a simple, honest conversation can clear the air.
Next up, boundaries. This is huge. Every couple needs their own space, both physically and emotionally. Whether that means no unannounced visits, having your own holiday traditions, or simply agreeing on “no family drama” zones in your home, it’s important to protect your little bubble. Boundaries aren’t about shutting people out, they’re about making sure your own relationship stays healthy and strong.
Another skill worth mastering? Active listening. This doesn’t just mean hearing words, it’s about genuinely understanding what the other person is saying. Often, conflicts with in-laws come from feeling unheard or misunderstood. By listening carefully and acknowledging their perspective, you can diffuse tension and show that you value their thoughts, even if you don’t agree.
When in-laws become toxic, sometimes the best choice is to set boundaries or cut ties to protect your marriage’s peace
Image credits: Kaboompics.com/Pexels (not the actual photo)
Respect is another cornerstone. It might seem obvious, but in the heat of an emotional conversation, it’s easy to forget. No eye rolls, no passive-aggressive digs, no public shaming—these things may feel satisfying in the moment but almost always backfire. A respectful tone goes a long way in keeping the peace, especially during disagreements.
Finding common ground can turn a rocky relationship into a smoother one. Maybe you both love gardening, old movies, or trying new recipes. Shared interests can create genuine bonding moments and take the focus off the things that cause friction. Plus, it’s hard to argue with someone when you’re laughing together over a failed soufflé.
Beware of constant criticism, whether giving it or receiving it. While occasional advice can be helpful, unsolicited critiques of parenting, cooking, or life choices often land badly. It’s okay to say, “I appreciate your perspective, but we’ve got this covered.” A little tact in handling criticism can prevent small annoyances from turning into major conflicts.
But let’s be honest, sometimes in-laws really do overstep, and in those moments, boundaries and communication might not be enough. That’s when you have to decide how far you’re willing to go to protect your peace. In some extreme cases, like this one, the best option is to step back entirely. Well, how would you react if your in-law crossed this line?
Many readers were appalled by the MIL’s actions and strongly advised the woman to keep her distance
The author expressed gratitude for the advice and explained that it took them a while to piece everything together and conclude her MIL was responsible
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What do you think ?
FreeTheUnicorn 3 months ago
OP and husband both think this woman was poisoning her and they didn't do anything? Fair enough get yourself in a safe situation, but she's probably doing this to others, a neighbour whose dog barks too much, someone in her friend group that is stealing the limelight, her husband! If you're afraid enough to scrub your online presence and move in secret, how are you not going to the police? Even if just to protect yourself and kids in the future? Once there's been a complaint it, even if nothing happens at that time, it means if something happens int he future she will be looked at. And if you need a restraining order it establishes pattern. Get a restraining order now, make it clear to everyone the kid is not tonhabe contact. I get not taking steps while you're reeling, but once they were safe how do you just let someone like that stay out in the community?
T Barth 3 months ago
I've said this before and it still blows my mind how many don't realize this but...tampering with food or drink with malicious intent to harm or otherwise is a Class B felony. With OP having Celiac disease makes this even more serious. I would've gone the route of reporting it for documentation. Let the authorities in on the situation and clue in the lawyer of this and move on from there. MIL needs to be in jail.
Crystalwitch60 3 months ago
Make that an asylum in a padded cell with a straight jacket for good measure n never allowed out unless it’s in a coffin
Load More Replies...
Catherine Kane 3 months ago
Odds are good that this is intentional attempt to poison OP but one other slightly possible option is that MiL is one of these bozos who think that allergies/ celiac is a made up attempt to get attention and is putting things and into OP's food and drink to "prove" that OP isn't Really sick. That's dangerous nonsense but those kinds of people are out there (I have weird food allergies and I've had people put things in my food that I told them I was allergic to "to see what would happen")
FreeTheUnicorn 3 months ago
OP and husband both think this woman was poisoning her and they didn't do anything? Fair enough get yourself in a safe situation, but she's probably doing this to others, a neighbour whose dog barks too much, someone in her friend group that is stealing the limelight, her husband! If you're afraid enough to scrub your online presence and move in secret, how are you not going to the police? Even if just to protect yourself and kids in the future? Once there's been a complaint it, even if nothing happens at that time, it means if something happens int he future she will be looked at. And if you need a restraining order it establishes pattern. Get a restraining order now, make it clear to everyone the kid is not tonhabe contact. I get not taking steps while you're reeling, but once they were safe how do you just let someone like that stay out in the community?
T Barth 3 months ago
I've said this before and it still blows my mind how many don't realize this but...tampering with food or drink with malicious intent to harm or otherwise is a Class B felony. With OP having Celiac disease makes this even more serious. I would've gone the route of reporting it for documentation. Let the authorities in on the situation and clue in the lawyer of this and move on from there. MIL needs to be in jail.
Crystalwitch60 3 months ago
Make that an asylum in a padded cell with a straight jacket for good measure n never allowed out unless it’s in a coffin
Load More Replies... Catherine Kane 3 months ago
Odds are good that this is intentional attempt to poison OP but one other slightly possible option is that MiL is one of these bozos who think that allergies/ celiac is a made up attempt to get attention and is putting things and into OP's food and drink to "prove" that OP isn't Really sick. That's dangerous nonsense but those kinds of people are out there (I have weird food allergies and I've had people put things in my food that I told them I was allergic to "to see what would happen")
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