BIZARRE: 7 - What They Never Told You

How can I end a strained friendship as gently as possible?

Your friend may have the capacity to change and needs someone on her side to help – but you could consider distancing yourself for a while

The Guardian - UK · Oct 20, 2023

I feel trapped by our family life abroad and want to move back to London

Geography may only be part of the problem – talk to your husband about what you want your future to look like

The Guardian - UK · Oct 13, 2023

Both my parents died and then my step-parents got together. Why can’t I be happy for them?

You have lost both your parents, and a disrupted childhood with few boundaries. It’s no wonder strong feelings are now exploding out of you

The Guardian - UK · Oct 6, 2023

My stepson lives with a girlfriend twice his age. Should I be worried?

You wanted him to move out and become independent, but now he is choosing a lifestyle you don’t like. Take care not to push him away

The Guardian - UK · Sep 1, 2023

Should I still see my difficult sister now our parents have died?

There’s clearly a lot of pain for both of you – and your stories need to be heard if you are to break the see-saw pattern

The Guardian - UK · Aug 25, 2023

I’m worried my mum is rushing into marriage with her new boyfriend

It’s not unusual to feel left out and suspicious about a parent starting a new relationship, but it’s important to seek reassurance from your mother

The Guardian - UK · Aug 18, 2023

My wife finds her mother’s rightwing rants hurtful. Should we cut her off?

Put your relationship first and maintain a united front – and if your mother-in-law becomes too toxic, walk away

The Guardian - UK · Aug 11, 2023

Living alone is making my anxiety spiral, but I’m too ashamed to reach out to friends and family

Invite people into your home – bringing people into your space instead of you always going to theirs might help

The Guardian - UK · Aug 4, 2023

My husband has no friends and is too reliant on me. How can I help him?

The issue here may be more than a concern for his lack of a social life. Try to look at your relationship holistically, rather than seeing him as having the problem

The Guardian - UK · Jul 28, 2023

My sister is drinking heavily while pregnant. How can I help her stop?

Excessive alcohol consumption puts the baby at risk so she needs urgent professional support – but approach her with compassion

The Guardian - UK · Jul 21, 2023