The Atlantic

Dear Therapist: My Adult Son Walked Out on Me on Mother’s Day

We’ve been growing apart lately, after he got married.

Editor’s Note: Every Monday, Lori Gottlieb answers questions from readers about their problems, big and small. Have a question? Email her at dear.therapist@theatlantic.com.

Dear Therapist,

My 30-year-old son and I had a fight on Mother’s Day, and he walked out and went home. We screamed at each other and both said things that were extremely ugly and hurtful. However, I cannot get over this hurt.

He was recently married and his wife (whom we adore) was with her mother that day. I know we’re both having a hard time separating—he is an only child and we have been very close.

I just can’t forgive him for walking out. I think that walking out on Mother’s Day is the meanest thing a

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