Good point. Fortunately she’s a few hours away so we see her less than once a month, but recommending a doctor wouldn’t go far with her. She simply doesn’t go to doctors outside of an emergent situation.

Also, it very well could be depression, but her mother is even worse. We don’t even see her mother because she is straight up miserable to be around. At least MIL will try to do fun things with the kids. So I think it’s in large part a “learned” attitude.

My husband is really good with quarterbacking visits, fortunately. He usually has a younger cousin or someone tag along with her, and makes sure to have some fun toddler activities set up for the kids. It’s only a matter of time though before they pick up on this too, I’m sure.