Please help!
How do I help my mom? She's really hurt inside by her past (abusive father, dependent mother) and it has made her form this wall over all things emotional. Growing up she always kept herself busy and kept a positive attitude, but never talked or supported me with any emotional stuff. I just grew up sensing that I should steer clear of those kinds of issues because it made both of us uncomfortable. Its gotten worse over time, I see her pain but don't know what to do about it. If I talk to her it could hurt her self esteem or cause her to go back into her happy facade any further.
Is there anything I can do about this? I know I'm not responsible for my mother's well-being, but it still affects me; I feel like I missed out on a lot of important lessons growing up.