If she's never been any different, then you might have to accept that she won't change. Everyone's experience is different, but you're an adult now - a real bona fide grown-up - and you deserve to be happy. Of course you want to stay on good terms with your mother, but not at the expense of your happiness. If you stay because you're afraid of her anger or afraid of losing her, then how are you ever going to have a life of your own? If she is controlling you, then you are allowing her to do so by putting up with it and staying where you are. Tell her how you feel by all means, but if nothing changes, you really have to put yourself first. Remember - if she's that controlling she won't want to be out of your life for long, even if you do move out! I don't think you need be afraid of losing her.