Talk to me: I rarely see my son's family even though we live in the same area 

Psychologist Caroline Martin is here to answer your questions on whatever issues you are dealing with in life, from work pressure and stress to loneliness and grief

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My only son and his wife have two young children and though we live in the same area, I rarely see them. I found her distant from the start but hoped we could become close in time. But we’ve become even more distant, particularly since Covid. I’ve offered to help by babysitting numerous times, but she says there is no need each time. I’m deeply hurt but don’t want to make things worse by confronting her. My son stays in touch but mostly by text. I’m heartbroken.

Irish mammies and their sons are famous for their close relationship and perhaps only Italian mamas can compare. The special bond is captured humorously in the American sitcom,  Everybody Loves Raymond. In the show, Raymond, his wife, Debra and their three young children live across the street from Raymond’s parents, and the comedy ensues. Debra experiences Raymond’s mother as overbearing and critical, resulting in tension between the couple.