What's Islamically Required for Supporting a Parent When Finances Are Complicated?

Assalamu alaikum everyone, I'm hoping for some sincere Islamic guidance here about a tricky family situation. I still keep in touch with my mother and see her about once a month. I haven't cut ties, but I do keep a bit of distance because our time together can be kind of up and down-it’s not always bad, but conversations sometimes take a stressful turn out of nowhere. On my last visit, she started talking about money issues. First it was about household expenses, then she mentioned needing dental work that’s pretty costly. She pointed out that since I’m employed now, I should pitch in something. To be honest, she isn’t demanding I cover everything, but there’s definitely a feeling that I ought to help out financially. Here’s why this is hard for me: - Money was always a big stress growing up, and it was handled really strictly. - I didn’t get much support, financially or emotionally, back then. - When I was struggling myself, I had to handle everything alone without help. - It took so much time and effort to build some stability, and I’m honestly afraid of slipping back into hardship. - Because of that, I’m really cautious with spending, live simply, and focus on saving. - Sometimes it almost feels like I’m being ‘penalized’ now for finally being in a better place. Another thing that gets to me is how she compares me to my uncle, saying he supports his mother. But from what I know, he’s always borrowing money and not repaying it, living way beyond his means. Even back then, she gave him large sums that we kids really needed, while we had to push hard just for basics like clothing or school supplies. That comparison feels really unfair. At the same time, I don’t want to be wrong or disrespectful, and I know Islam emphasizes caring for parents. So my questions are: - Am I Islamically required to support her financially if she has her own income (she does some work on the side)? - Is helping out expected here, or is it completely up to me? - Does the past-like not getting support and having a tough relationship-matter in this? I’m trying to figure out how to do what’s right Islamically while also safeguarding the stability I’ve worked so hard to achieve. Jazakum Allahu khayran for any advice.