Al Veoli: Spousal and Bodily Burdens

Dear Al Veoli:

My husband has depression and he has not been functioning well lately. He has not turned in any of his expense reports for work and as a result has us in about $20,000 of debt. He hates his job but doesn't think he can find another one at his age. I don't think I can stay married to a man like this. What do I do?

-Distraught

Dear Distraught:

Your husband's mental health is important, and it could be that a change in medication, treatment, or therapy could lead to much better results at work or at home. Encourage him to seek further help, and if he hesitates, note the problems that are resulting from his depression. Right now another priority is getting out of debt, and you might need to go to such lengths as sitting down with your husband and filling out expense reports with him. Essentially, try helping and teaming up with him to solve these crises before abandoning him and the relationship. You might end up with surprisingly positive results.

Back to Top | Submit a Question

Dear Al Veoli:

I hate my breasts. I wear a size A but slouch to hide them. Advice?

-Ashamed

Dear Ashamed:

There is no reason to feel ashamed of your body. Every woman has a different body shape and we all bring something positive and unique to the table. Whether you feel your breasts are too small or don't want them to be there at all, they're there, and they're a part of you, and it's important to appreciate your body. It's easy to dislike a body part, but put into perspective, it's absolutely essential to be grateful for a healthy body, regardless of its unappreciated aspects.

Back to Top | Submit a Question

Dear Al Veoli:

My boyfriend always tries to control what I do. He doesn't like it when I talk to other guys. What can I say to combat this?

-Annoyed

Dear Annoyed:

You need to tell your boyfriend that how you comport yourself is your business and no one else's. If he consistently objects to your actions, then maybe he shouldn't be with you. Talking to other people, male and female, is a healthy part of your existence, and he needs to get used to that or date someone who wants to be supervised at all hours.

Back to Top | Submit a Question

Have a question for Al Veoli? Submit it below.

Al looks forward to hearing from you!