Dear Annie: We used to have an excellent relationship with our son, and he has a daughter who is now 19 years old. Seven years ago, he met a divorced woman whom we initially liked, but over time, things changed drastically.

Since this new relationship began, our son’s bond with his daughter has deteriorated to the point where they hardly see each other anymore, simply because, according to them, they’re always “too busy.”

While we’ve managed to maintain a wonderful relationship with our granddaughter, things with our son have become strained, largely due to his new wife, who has become very controlling. She clearly dislikes us, and as a result, our relationship with him has virtually collapsed.

Recently, our son had a breakdown, and we’re not allowed to see him at all. This has deeply hurt us, and his daughter is heartbroken as well. It’s painful to watch her suffer, knowing she’s lost her connection with her father, and we’re unsure how to help.

How can we possibly repair this broken relationship with our son when his wife seems determined to keep us at a distance? Is there any way we can support him through this difficult time without alienating him further or creating more tension? We are desperate for advice on how to rebuild our family ties before it’s too late. — Heartbroken Parents

Dear Heartbroken Parents: This is an incredibly difficult situation for everyone involved. The hard truth is that the only person who can truly help your son is your son himself; he has to want the help and be ready to accept it.

In the meantime, continue reaching out to your daughter-in-law from a place of pure love and concern for your son’s well-being, and for the sake of your granddaughter.

While it’s understandable to feel that she is controlling (which I don’t doubt she may be), placing blame on her won’t help your son or granddaughter in the present moment.

What can help is showing unconditional love and support for your son, while practicing non-judgmental acceptance toward your daughter-in-law. This approach may give your son the emotional space he needs to heal and, ultimately, reconnect with his family.

Read more Dear Annie and other advice columns.

“How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?” is out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology — featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation — is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit Creators Publishing for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to [email protected].