I did everything for my daughter but she wants nothing to do with me
Read Dear Deidre Editor Sally Land's personal replies to today's problems.
DEAR DEIDRE: As a single dad I did everything I could to provide a good life for my daughter, but these days she wants absolutely nothing to do with me.
I try so hard to make an effort with her, but she rarely answers the phone or even texts me back.
I can’t help but question if she even wants to know me.
She’s 36 and I’m her 68-year-old father.
Growing up we were always so close but in recent years she’s grown distant and has made little effort with me.
These days she barely ever comes to visit, and when she does getting any conversation out of her feels like pulling teeth.
I don’t want to suffocate her, but when I give her space we go months without talking.
I’ve tried so hard to be the best dad and this is how she thanks me.
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DEIDRE SAYS: It’s understandable that you’re feeling down about this.
You’ve done your best to be a loving, supportive, and constant presence in your daughter’s life, but it seems she doesn’t appreciate your efforts.
There is also an alternative explanation; could she be suffering with low mood. When people feel depressed they often pull away from their loved ones and withdraw into themselves.
Gently tell her you love her and want to be a part of her life but you feel pushed away.
Ask if she is okay and if anything is worrying her.
You can also turn to Stand Alone (), which supports people estranged from their families.
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