Why do I feel like I don’t matter?
I feel depressed and unable to open up.
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Answers
Questions, shared experiences, and professional perspectives.
Why do I have these terrifying thoughts?
I’m a 23-year-old male and for years I’ve felt what I can only describe as a…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Can my partner stop watching porn?
I've been dating "drew" for almost three years. about a year and a half ago, I…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Can we have a future if his ex is still around?
my boyfriend and I have been in a warm, caring relationship for about 13 months. we…
Answer byAnn Landers
Why do I struggle with being faithful?
I have a hard time staying faithful in relationships. I’m naturally flirtatious and after a few…
Answer byAnn Landers
How do I let go of my ex-sister-in-law?
I ended a five-year marriage with an abusive husband. I should have left many years earlier…
Answer byAnn Landers
Is it my fault that he has cheated on me?
my fiancee and I have been together for two years. we have one child together, another…
Answer byAnn Landers
Am I the problem or is this emotional abuse?
my boyfriend and I have been together for almost three years and now live together. we…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How do I cope when life feels hopeless?
I'm a 26-year-old woman, married, a college graduate, and a mom to a five-year-old. lately, I’ve…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How can my best friend heal from harassment?
one of my friends was sexually harassed in school and now it is all she can…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Does she have Histrionic Personality Disorder?
I wrote recently about a person that my roommates and I are concerned about. she has…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can I help my friend without making things worse?
I want to support a struggling friend.
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
What can I do about his disrespect?
I’ve been with my husband for 5 years, and we have a 3-year-old daughter. we have…
Answer byAnn Landers
Why is my daughter avoiding responsibility?
doctor, I’m a dad of five kids, one daughter and four boys. my wife and I…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why am I hearing voices?
I've been struggling with severe insomnia for the past few weeks. I can't sleep at night…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Is Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) related to heightened sexual behavior?
does heightened sexual behavior go along with the adhd ? my eight year old is exhibiting…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Can we involuntarily admit a family member in a crisis?
my father appears to be experiencing a serious mental health crisis . he has never been…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can I help my socially awkward son?
my son is in his mid-30s and really smart. he has a ph.d. in chemistry and…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Help me please. What is going on with me?
over the past few years I’ve been under an incredible amount of stress and because of…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
I’m a 26-year-old virgin. How do I stop being socially awkward?
I’m a 26-year-old white, middle-class guy, who is smart, attractive, and successful in most areas of…
Answer byAnn Landers
Is my low stress tolerance a sign of mental illness?
Everyday stress feels overwhelming.
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
What should I do if my boyfriend has no sex drive?
I have been in a relationship with my boyfriend for only 4 months. the first two…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How should I handle issues between my boyfriend and his adult daughter?
my boyfriend of two years left me because he felt I was too jealous of his…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why do some mothers sleep with their sons?
a mother who sleeps with her 20 year old son, and her 10 year old son…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
What should I do if I suspect my husband is gay?
I really need advice, please. my husband of 10 years had cheated on my 4 different…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Do I have morbid jealousy?
I left my marriage of 5 years six months ago. he was abusive but much of…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What should I do if I’m missing my ex-boyfriend terribly?
we dated for 6 1/2 months. I met him at a community gathering through a friend…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Is it normal to be middle-aged and never have been in love?
I am a 53 year old woman and, I guess, somewhat attractive (so some say). I…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What should I do about my lying, cheating husband?
my husband has been having an affair for two years. we have since been to counseling…
Answer byAnn Landers
Can love survive if we have different religions?
I like this girl. she is catholic and I am muslim. what do I do I…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why am I experiencing a loss of patience?
I seem to lose my patience very quickly with everything !!! its really effecting my family…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why do I feel like I’m losing my personality wholeness?
it has been 6 month since it started. I just can’t understand whats going on with…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Can my high school relationship survive college?
I’ve been dating my high school boyfriend for 5 months now. we started dating senior year…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How do I deal with someone who is a liar and a kleptomaniac?
I am a compulsive liar as well as a kleptomaniac. I have been confronted by former…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Why am I so jealous of her male friends?
about 7 months ago, I broke up with the love of my life over some very…
Answer byAnn Landers
How do I deal with a jealous girlfriend?
dear dr.schwartz, please give me some advice on how to save my relationship with my overly…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What’s wrong with me?
I don’t really know where to start but basically I think I have some sort of…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How should I handle my husband’s request for anal play?
my husband is turned on by prostate massage. he has always wanted me to physically wear…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How can I support my girlfriend who has bipolar?
I’ve been in a very close relationship with my girlfriend for a good while. I would…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How are dissociation, DID, and Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) connected?
I have been diagnosed with ptsd. therapy has just begun for me. I was diagnosed after…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How can I cope with regular suicidal thoughts?
for the past year, I have felt regular thoughts of killing myself. usually with a gun…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
What’s the difference between Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and DID?
I read the previous question about diagnosis of ptsd vs. did. my therapist also diagnosed me…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Can you have Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) since childhood with no memory of trauma?
dr. schwartz, I am a 21 year old female, and I have recently been tentatively diagnosed…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How are Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and night terrors connected?
I have been diagnosed with ptsd and mdd. I have been experiencing night terrors. can you…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How do I deal with a psychotic ex-boyfriend?
I am still in verbal contact with an ex boyfriend who began to have all sorts…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How effective is Prozac for Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?
I have a question. I am new to this site. I had been on prozac for…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What should I do about my husband’s prolonged unemployment?
I am in my second marriage and my husband was laid off over 4 years ago…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How do I cope with my boyfriend’s depression?
I have a question that concerns my boyfriend. he is depressed. but his depression doesn’t show…
Answer byAnn Landers
How do I cope with a postponed wedding day?
I am 30 years old and met my boyfriend a year ago. he is 25. he…
Answer byAnn Landers
What helps with POCD?
I’m going to try to explain my situation. I started with depression since I was 13…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can psychopaths manipulate people if they lack empathy?
I have no trouble relating to the notion psychopaths lack empathy based on my own personal…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
What is pathological lying?
I believe my son may be a pathological liar and has been since child hood. he…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
What is paranoid depression?
a close family member has been diagnosed with depression. he was prescribed medication, which did help…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How should I handle someone’s lack of personal hygiene?
my nineteen year old daughter is slim, attractive and intelligent. this past year her personal hygiene…
Answer byAnn Landers
What are the first steps to overcoming paranoia?
I have a serious problem and I need your help. my brother has always been a…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Why does our son refuse treatment for his anxiety and depression?
our son has been away at college and began suffering from anxiety attacks and depression about…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Does Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) cause me to feel no emotions?
dr. schwartz, I’m 25 and found out two years ago that I’ve been ocd (to my…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can I cope with obsessive thoughts about life and existentialism?
I have a very serious problem that maybe you can explain. I have been having these…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Why do I keep dreaming about a nonexistent lover?
I’m not sure if this is strange, but I feel as though I’m in love with…
Answer byAnn Landers
Why is there no romance after having a baby?
my boyfriend and I have been together for 11 years since high school. we have a…
Answer byAnn Landers
Why have I never had a boyfriend?
I am currently 21 years of age and I have never officially had a boyfriend in…
Answer byAnn Landers
Why can't I find a serious relationship?
I’m a 23 year old woman and have never been in a serious relationship. I often…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can I overcome being nervous about nudity?
anne, hoping you can help with what has become a serious problem for me. I have…
Answer byAnn Landers
How do I deal with a narcissistic stepfather?
I was bullied and physically manhandled by my stepfather over 6 months ago so I left…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How can I help my younger brother who has spells of rage?
my younger brother is having spells of rage and is under stress from recently having a…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How should I deal with my wife’s past?
as a child, I was brought up very strict. I was taught that pre-marital sex was…
Answer byAnn Landers
What should I do if I feel like my therapist doesn’t like me?
I have been seeing this therapist. recently I’ve let him know that I am concerned that…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Is my snoring pushing him away?
I’ve been having a problem for the last year with snoring. my husband has put up…
Answer byAnn Landers
What is the true meaning of being defensive?
my wife and I are trying to find out the true meaning of being defensive. is…
Answer byAnn Landers
What is the point of life?
I’ve tried mental help for my depression. I’m even on anti-depressants and I feel even worse…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Should I leave my husband?
we have been a couple for 16 years and have been married for 8. we have…
Answer byAnn Landers
Should I be hopeful that he will change his mind about divorce?
I’m in shock. after 11 months of marriage my husband told me he wants a divorce…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can I learn self-acceptance?
I am a lesbian woman. I’ve been in a very deep relationship for over 3 years…
Answer byAnn Landers
Is it wrong that I’m seeing a married man?
I have been seeing a married man for a year, we have discussed his leaving his…
Answer byAnn Landers
Will depression affect my chances of getting security clearance?
I am currently employed at a government contractor in which a top secret security clearance is…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How can I cope with scary thoughts and dark feelings?
thank you so much for all of the help that you provide. I’m a 23 year…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why am I so afraid he will leave me?
I have been dating a wonderful man for the past eight months. before that I had…
Answer byAnn Landers
Will my boyfriend eventually hit me?
doctor, I’ve been in a loving relationship with a man for 5 years now. I am…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Will I ever feel normal?
I am a 37 year old female. my entire life I have always felt like a…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why does my wife of 21 years have a boyfriend?
my wife of 21 years has a boyfriend. she moved out of the house 6 weeks…
Answer byAnn Landers
Why is he so jealous?
how long have you been together? 8 months what is your age range? 20/25 please share…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why does my wife’s old boyfriend bother me?
my wife’s old boyfriend recently contacted her and they have been corresponding on a daily basis…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why does my boyfriend’s ex-girlfriend have to be so involved in his life?
I have dated this man for over six years. his child was born shortly after we…
Answer byAnn Landers
Why do men not find me attractive?
I am sort of old fashioned in the sense that I prefer the man to ask…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why do I feel like I like being abused?
I’m a 27 year old woman and I have a fiancee who is good to me…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why do I feel like everyone is trying to upset me?
I go through stages every few months where I feel completely over emotional and really upset…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why can’t I get gross images out of my head?
I never use to be this way but find that I am increasingly anxious over images…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Why do I feel inadequate?
my body image. “I have nothing to hide behind.if I had a perfect body, I could…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What options remain after last-resort medications?
I have been treated for major depressive disorder for over a year now. currently I am…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
What should I do about my 19-year-old daughter’s anger issues?
my 19 year old daughter has very disturbing temper tantrums and they are getting worse. she…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What should I do if I’m terrified I’ll do something sexually inappropriate?
I’m 16 years old, female! I have been house- bound for 18 months as I have…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How should I handle a sweet but aloof boyfriend?
my boyfriend is a sweet and very caring person, but I find myself getting frustrated with…
Answer byAnn Landers
Are strange sexual fantasies normal?
I’m an 18 year old woman and I’ve always had strange sexual fantasies. I’m very turned…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can I protect myself from stalking and regain control?
I am a 43 yr. old woman who is being stalked/harassed by a religious zealot. this…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How does borderline personality disorder affect spousal abuse?
in late 1995 I started dating following a divorce from a 29 yr marriage (32 yrs…
Answer byAnn Landers
What causes spitting behavior?
I have a 6 year old son who lately has been spitting a lot. he’s always…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can you solve and fix your problems quickly?
I just have a quick question relating to mental health. with all the different mental disorders…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How can I get help for my smoking fetish?
my husband has a smoking fetish. I am a smoker and am completely okay and enjoy…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How do I deal with a slobby husband?
anne, I have been married to a wonderful man for 5 years, but I have found…
Answer byAnn Landers
Should I stay with my girlfriend of 4 years?
I have been with the same girl for over four years. I’m off at college and…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Should I stay with a lying husband?
we have been married for 35 years and I recently discovered (through receipt for m+s items)…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can I prevent relapse into pornography?
I am a 29 year old male involved in a happy relationship (both sexually and emotionally)…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How do I handle having to choose between my husband and my son?
I'm really at a loss and don’t know what to do. I'm married and have three…
Answer byAnn Landers
Why do I hear voices and feel no emotion?
I’ve been trying to find reliable advice on what to do. I feel completely numb. I…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What should I do if I always feel like someone is watching me?
ever since my freshman year I have always believed someone was watching me, following me, telling…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Why do I have such a hard time making friends with other guys?
I have a hard time making friends with other guys and I also have relationship issues…
Answer byAnn Landers
How do I handle having a crush on my husband’s friend?
I have been married for the last 8 years. my husband and I have been experiencing…
Answer byAnn Landers
What should I do if I feel ugly?
my almost 7yo daughter recently told me she feels ugly and she does not think she…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can I stop feeling like he loves her more?
my boyfriend and I have been together for a year, but it's been a challenging journey…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why do I feel like I don’t care about anything?
I am a seventeen year old girl. I often find that my energy is very low…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why don’t I know who my true self is?
I’m not usually open about anything like this. but I’m in need of answers. I’m a…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Why do I feel like I’m wasting my life?
I’m an 18 year old male, living in california. over the past few weeks my motivation…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why do I become so hostile toward myself?
I am an 18-year old male who over the past few months has had several strange…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How does hypothyroidism affect a 23-year-old girl?
I am a 23 year old active girl. I have a loving boyfriend, a fairly decent…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can I help my husband with his weight problem?
I have been married for many years. the marriage has been rocky. I have a sort…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Is my husband’s secretary too close to him?
am I asking too much of my husband? we have a christian marriage. I have moved…
Answer byAnn Landers
What should I do if my husband wants a divorce?
my husband asked me for a divorce the other day. I am devastated. he said I’m…
Answer byAnn Landers
Why does my husband get jealous of my friends and family?
my husband and I have been married for 6+ years. I would consider us to be…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Is my husband’s playfulness with our daughter inappropriate?
my husband and daughter always play around physically. I have been telling them to stop because…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can I show appreciation and reap the rewards?
doctor, I am a 20-year-old male. since I was 16, I have started experiencing something that…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What should I do to stop my stepson from molesting my kids?
I am the proud momma of 3 children, ages 5, 2, and 1. I also have…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How do I encourage compassion in my 4-year-old son?
my son laughs when a person gets hurt and smiles when someone is crying. he just…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can I forgive my husband for abandoning me?
I am married for a year now. I have some health problems that incapacitate me temporarily…
Answer byAnn Landers
Could my sister be a pathological liar?
one year ago my sister divorced her husband and ever since then she has been extremely…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Does my boyfriend have sex anxiety, or is he gay?
I’ve been with my boyfriend for about 6 months now. the first month was exciting, fun…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Is male interest in pornography normal?
is it normal for a man to be into pornography? my fiance seems to really enjoy…
Answer byAnn Landers
How do I stop being such an attention seeker?
is it possible to change one’s personality to stop wanting to draw attention to yourself. if…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Is it wrong to be a masochist?
is it okay to be a masochist? I don’t do anything to myself that can cause…
Answer byAnn Landers
Why does it feel like I’m competing with his son?
my boyfriend and I have been together for two years, and we moved in together two…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
I need support, where do I start?
I’m a 30-year-old woman who has spent much of my life struggling with dark and negative…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What can I do when my suicidal son can’t stop abusing drugs?
I have a 33-year-old son who struggles with serious mental health issues and daily drug abuse…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What causes someone to mentally check-out?
what is the condition or syndrome that causes someone to mentally check out during certain situations…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How can I overcome my debilitating shyness and fear of life?
I feel so lost. I feel very sad, depressed and worthless. I am 21 years old…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can I forgive my husband to save our marriage?
the last two months I have been separated from my husband. I married him when I…
Answer byAnn Landers
How can I cope with the unbearable loss of my husband?
I was married for over 40 years and for those 40 years, he was someone I…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How can I control morbid jealousy?
I have suffered this problem for around 30 years it is now likely to cost me…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What should I do if I’ve lost interest in sex?
my husband and I have been married for 5 yrs. we had a good sex life…
Answer byAnn Landers
What should I do if I think my husband hates me?
I’ve been with my husband for 9 years and we have been married for three and…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Does my husband have sex and intimacy issues?
I have been with my man for three years now and have been patiently waiting for…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What meds can treat depression without weight gain?
I’m sure I have either bipolar or unipolar. I know I require treatment. but I refuse…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Am I obsessing over the lack of affection?
I really love my boyfriend. we live together and have been together for a year. we…
Answer byAnn Landers
What should I do if I can’t experience happiness?
I am sure there must be some neurological disorder that I have that makes it impossible…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What does it mean if I’m attracted to men and women?
I‘m a 20 year-old junior in college who can’t decide if I am gay or not…
Answer byAnn Landers
Why do I have to imagine I’m a sex victim?
help me! I’m in a long term loving relationship with someone that is otherwise wonderful, but…
Answer byAnn Landers
Is it normal to feel nothing when you have Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?
history of question: in november (2007) my boyfriend of 5 years committed suicide with out warning……
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Does my Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) increase the risk of my child developing autism?
I have read that children with autism may have a parent with an anxiety related disorder…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Is my boyfriend’s daughter too attached?
I have been in a relationship with my boyfriend for three years, and I want to…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why can’t I walk away from my ex?
I recently ended a relationship with my boyfriend of a year and a half. due to…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Can our marriage survive without sex?
I’m seeing a therapist to address my fear and dislike of sex. she strongly believes my…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Can a psychologist tell his patient that he is attracted to her?
is it ever appropriate for a psychologist to disclose their attraction to a patient, even if…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Can mental illness cause physical pain?
have you ever heard of any cases of mental illness that are associated with neck and…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Can I contact my mothers doctor?
my mother is experiencing a range of concerning symptoms, including anxiety, anger, mood swings, disordered eating…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Can you help me save my relationship?
I’m afraid of losing someone I love.
Answer byAnn Landers
How do I manage feelings for my ex whilst grieving?
my father passed away suddenly three weeks ago. we were very close, and I never truly…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Can our love survive broken trust?
I am 20 years old, a recovered anorexic and I have been living with my boyfriend…
Answer byAnn Landers
Why has grief made me numb?
last february I lost my grandmother who had alzheimers. I had lived with her and taken…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Why am I questioning my long-distance relationship?
last year, I started my first year of college while still in a relationship with my…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Is my wife's counting a sign of a disorder?
my wife is constantly counting, all day, every day. she looks at me and counts the…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Should I leave my depressed, controlling husband?
I’ve been married since I was 19. almost four years ago, my husband was injured at…
Answer byAnn Landers
How do I manage my anger towards my step-dad?
I never knew my biological father and my mom and step-dad got married when I was…
Answer byAnn Landers
How do I stop needing so much attention?
I am 29, female, and have been married for two years and I struggle with a…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Can our relationship survive his toxic mother?
I met my boyfriend just over two years ago and our relationship has mostly been good…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Can I find love when I am afraid of being judged?
I am reaching out for support about dating and finding a loving partner. I have found…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How do you save a loved one who refuses to be helped?
for months my brother has been talking about death and asking painful questions like, “why can’t…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How do I cope after losing both parents and battling Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?
I lost both of my parents within the span of two years. my mother was diagnosed…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
What should I do about my boyfriend’s delusional jealousy?
I believe my boyfriend may be experiencing delusional jealousy. we have been together for over a…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How do you know if a memory is real or a delusion?
a few years ago, I struggled with methamphetamine abuse for about eight months. even before that…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can I encourage my husband to take more responsibility?
although I have my own mental health challenges, I’m seeking advice on how to support my…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Feeling depressed and isolated. How do I move forward?
I’m a 23-year-old woman who has been housebound since may 2011. I’ve been seeing a therapist…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What is happening when I dissociate?
I’ve been diagnosed with chronic depression (currently treated with prozac), and I also experience anxiety attacks…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Does my boyfriend have feelings for his ex wife?
dr. schwartz. I’ve been with my boyfriend for almost three years now. before me, he was…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How do I break free from my dominating mother?
I’m the youngest of three daughters and growing up, our mother was always the dominant force…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why do I black out after just a few drinks?
I need some help understanding what’s going on. quite often when I drink alcohol I end…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Am I competing with my stepdaughter?
this might sound silly but I feel like I have to compete for my husband’s attention…
Answer byAnn Landers
Could I have done something horrible without remembering?
I’m very worried that I might have done something completely against who I really am and…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why does he want to divorce me?
I’ve been with my husband for nine years and married for four. we have three children…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How do we fix our relationship?
I’ve been with my fiancée for four years, though our relationship has been on and off…
Answer byAnn Landers
How can I better support my histrionic mother?
my elderly parents live in another state, and my father has terminal cancer. I’ve been visiting…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Do I have an eating disorder?
I’m 22 years old and have been struggling with severe depression for about 15 months. while…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Is there a way to stop my choking anxiety?
dear dr. schwartz, I am a 32-year-old woman who has been diagnosed with numerous mental health…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why am I so fragile?
every time someone says something even slightly rude or condescending, I feel like I’m on the…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Why do I snap over little things?
I've been trying to understand myself, but I just can't seem to figure it out. I…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Is my 5 year old showing signs of Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or Bipolar Disorder?
my 5 year old is currently spitting at school when he feels frustrated or angry. he…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What is your theoretical perspective?
dr. dombeck I am a graduate student at the university of south florida and I have…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How do I deal with my passive-aggressive husband?
how long have you been together? 12 years what is your age range? 34-40 no children…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Could my mental health get worse if I don’t get help?
I’m 16, and I think I have a mental illness. I told my mom that I…
Answer byAnn Landers
Does a therapist have to report self-injury as suicidal?
I’m a 27-year-old woman who has struggled with self-injury (cutting, burning) since early childhood, following physical…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
What should I do if I can’t continue without affection?
I have been married for 14 years, but for the past 13, my husband has shown…
Answer byAnn Landers
How do I stop living in fear of the next outburst?
I need an objective opinion. I’ve been married for five years to a man I love…
Answer byAnn Landers
Is holding a partner's throat during sex about control?
dr. schwartz, I’ve been wondering if holding a partner’s throat during sex could be a sign…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What should I do if my girlfriend’s family is destroying our relationship?
my girlfriend is 23 and has been through a lot in life. we’ve been together for…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How do I stand up to my husbands verbal abuse?
I am a 30-year-old married woman with two children. from the outside, my life might appear…
Answer byAnn Landers
I got everything I wanted. Why do I still feel miserable?
I’ve been in a common-law relationship for many years. we have two great kids, a solid…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What are some effective coping skills for dealing with paranoia?
I am under the care of a therapist and have been diagnosed with paranoia. I have…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Is it okay to ask for closure months after a breakup?
I met this great guy who I thought I was gonna get married to. we were…
Answer byAnn Landers
Why did my fiancée leave me over past porn use?
my fiancée just left me. she meant everything to me. I loved her more deeply than…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Is it a concern that I get aroused by fictional sadistic fantasies?
dear dr. schwartz, I hope you’re doing well. I’m reaching out with a question that’s been…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can I overcome my past and trust my partner?
I’ve been in my current relationship for almost a year. before this, I was with someone…
Answer byAnn Landers
How do I cope with a parent who is trying to ruin me?
my mother has always made it clear that she loves money more than anything else. shortly…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can I help a grieving sister who is angry with me?
my sister’s husband died unexpectedly. he had been sick for 5 years, had surgery and died…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How can I help my mother if my father is abusing her?
I hope you can help me or guide me in the right direction. my mother and…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What should I do when I miss my daughter so much?
my daughter and I always had a great relationship. we were friends and we respected each…
Answer byAnn Landers
How do I get the spark back when I still love her?
I’ve been dating this girl for about a year and a half, and I fell completely…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What should I do if I don’t like to eat?
I am 26 years old, 6’3" tall and weigh 134 pounds. I eat once a day…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why can’t I tell a lie?
my father died when I was just 15 from a heart attack. the reason why he…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Do I need to leave my environment?
I had a pretty tough childhood, my father was a violent alcoholic, in and out of…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why won’t my boyfriend be less selfish in bed?
so my boyfriend and I have had so many problems. he is bi-polar for number one…
Answer byAnn Landers
How can I help my grieving mother?
I am a 42 yo woman who is living with bipolar ii disorder and ocd. I’m…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Does my boyfriend have a sexual issue, or is he simply lazy in bed?
my boyfriend and I have been together for almost a year now and I am very…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Would it be appropriate to give my therapist a gift?
I have had the same therapist for more than 15 years, on and off. this therapist…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Is it wrong to call my daughter sweetie or other pet names?
I am recently married with 3 children from a previous marriage. my situation revolves around my…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What should I do about intrusive thoughts?
I am a 42 year old woman and I often have these thoughts like, “I should…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What should I do if intrusive humiliating memories won’t go away?
I am 48 years old. I have noticed that almost everything I do triggers a memory…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How do I cope with a husband who is insanely jealous?
my husband and I have been married for 5 years and have two toddler boys. he…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why am I so indecisive?
for as long as I can remember I have had a major problem with “decision making”…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
What should I do if I can’t express myself?
I guess I have a lot of “issues” but I am reluctant to see a therapist…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
What should I do if I’m scared?
I have no idea why this started but I am always thinking about death, mine, my…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What should I do if I’m overemotional?
dear dr. dombeck, I have actually a quite strange problem. I read a lot about children…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
As his second wife, will I always play second fiddle to his daughter?
my husband and I met when he was in the midst of divorcing his first wife…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why do I feel like I’m going crazy?
I’m a 26 year old female who feels like I am going crazy. sometimes I have…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
What should I do after being cheated on by my girlfriend?
my story is a strange one….. I got a mobile friendship with a lady a year…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can I stop being attracted to men who don’t want me?
I’m a 49 year old man. I think and feel like I’m from another time, another…
Answer byAnn Landers
Why am I such a homebody?
I am a full-time homemaker, and I love it. I have a friend of eight years…
Answer byAnn Landers
What should I do if my OCPD husband can’t tolerate my flaws?
dr. dombeck- I just recently married 5 months ago and since this time, my husband has…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
What should I do if my needy son hates my boyfriend?
I have been divorced for almost 9 years. I have 2 children ages 22, and 14…
Answer byAnn Landers
How do I raise my little girl in a healthy, happy relationship?
my daughter is 11 yrs old. she started puberty about 6 months ago. shortly after, she…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What should I do if my husband won’t touch me?
hi,I have a question. I have been with my husband for 6 years of marriage and…
Answer byAnn Landers
What should I do if my husband won’t take his medicine?
my husband has decided to stop taking his immunosupressents (liver transplantee) it has been 11 years…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
What should I do if my husband is too affectionate?
when we first got together, it was wonderful to be constantly kissed, adored, complimented, most women…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can I support my girlfriend in learning not to be so critical?
my girlfriend and I have been dating for about 11 months, and during this time we…
Answer byAnn Landers
How can I help my girlfriend orgasm after 2 ½ years together?
my girlfriend and I (age 23 both of us), have been having intercourse for over 2…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Will my fiancé ever move on from his late wife?
I have been in a relationship for a year with a widower. we are now engaged…
Answer byAnn Landers
Why does my ex-husband say he wants me but stay with his girlfriend?
I have a really messed up situation that I hope some sort of enlightenment can help…
Answer byAnn Landers
What should I do if my depressed husband won’t sleep with me?
my husband has been going through severe depression for almost a year now. it manifested itself…
Answer byAnn Landers
Why does my dead mother haunt my dreams?
two years ago my mother passed away after I had cared for her for 10 years…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why won’t my boyfriend’s children accept me?
I have been involved with my boyfriend for nearly 5 years now and his children, particularly…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why does my boyfriend still have pictures of his ex-girlfriend?
I just found out recently, after being with my boyfriend for more than a year, that…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What should I do if my boyfriend is a sociopath?
I am 24 years old and have been living with my boyfriend for 3 years. for…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What’s the difference between mental illness and insanity?
what is the difference between mental illness and insanity
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Why do I still have lingering feelings for my old affair partner?
my problem might seem small compared to everyone else’s, but I still need help. two years…
Answer byAnn Landers
What causes a lack of social skills?
due to circumstances I had little control over, namely oppressive parents, my capacity for self-expression is…
Answer byAnn Landers
What should I do if I’m not ready for commitment?
I’m 30 and have just experienced mature love for the first time but my heart is…
Answer byAnn Landers
Why do people show no compassion for depression?
I have been married for 18 years. I am 36, husband is 41. we have 3…
Answer byAnn Landers
Why am I so shy and scared of rejection?
I’m shy and afraid of rejection.
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
What should I do if my wife wants me to leave?
I have been married for 12 years and have gone through a lot of problems. I…
Answer byAnn Landers
What should I do about my wife and her sister?
I have been married to my wife for 4 years. twice I have come home and…
Answer byAnn Landers
What should I do if my son says he hears voices and whispers?
just this morning my son who is 7 years old told me that he hears voices…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What should I do if my schizophrenic sister refuses treatment?
my sister has been diagnosed with schizophrenia. she is in her mid 40’s and has three…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
What is neuroticism?
I would like to know if neuroticism is a form of personality disorder
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
What is a complex?
dr. could you please explain to me what a complex is and what causes them. could…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
What signs can help me understand if I experienced sexual abuse?
is it possible to have been sexually abused as a child and not remember it at…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Why am I so unlucky in love?
I am a 29 year old male, struggling to make my life work. I have not…
Answer byAnn Landers
What else can help my son stop hearing voices?
my son is 28 years old has had a mental illness for 12 years now. he…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What should I do if I’m unhappy in an arranged marriage?
I have been married for 11 years and I have three wonderful kids ages 9, 7…
Answer byAnn Landers
How do I deal with an unexpressive partner?
I love someone who has great difficulty expressing himself. he holds all emotions in. even during…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Why do I feel uncomfortable around my boyfriend?
my best friend and I were getting really close, and then we wound up kissing. I…
Answer byAnn Landers
How can I save my 37-year marriage with my bipolar husband?
I have been married for 37 years to my husband, most of which has been fine…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can I reconnect with my ex?
I was hoping you can help. my girlfriend and I were dating for almost 4 years…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can I cope with friends and family rejecting me after trauma?
dear anne, I am afraid this may have the tone of venting because the most recent…
Answer byAnn Landers
What is transvestic fetishism?
I just found out 2 days ago that my boyfriend & man I plan to marry…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How can I handle being torn between two lovers?
so I’ve been with my girlfriend for almost four years now, and not once have I…
Answer byAnn Landers
Am I spending too much time doing homework?
I have always had a very hard time trying to concentrate on doing my homework. it…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Does a therapist have the right to contact my employer?
as a former patient of a psychologist, I recently indicated to my former therapist in email…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
How do I handle a four-year-old boy who keeps spitting?
I have a four year old that spits and acts out violently (slapping, pushing) at other…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What should I do if I’m scared of hurting him?
I am just starting out in a relationship that has the potential for turning into something…
Answer byAnn Landers
Why don’t I care anymore? What’s wrong with me?
my life sux! I’m a 36 year old woman, unmarried, without children. I don’t enjoy anything.I…
Answer byAnn Landers
Why does obsessional thinking feel like a brain lock?
“I broke up with my ex already two years ago. he…found another woman just one week…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why does my boyfriend still have photos of his ex?
I’ve been in a relationship with my boyfriend for over three years. he still keeps photos…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Lonely and depressed. How do I start connecting with others?
in my life, I have never been completely happy. even during times when everything seemed to…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How do I overcome my fear of contact?
I've never liked being touched, but I did not give it much thought until recently, when…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What causes anhedonia and how do I fix it?
I'm having trouble experiencing pleasure. the small things I used to enjoy, like evening walks, taking…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Does alcohol reveal people's true personality?
my perfect relationship just fell apart, and I’m trying to figure out if it’s even worth…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How do you help a parent with mental illness?
I’m a 30-year-old with two older siblings. we were raised in a loving home by parents…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Why doesn’t my boyfriend give gifts?
I’m in a relationship with a guy I love. he treats me well, and sometimes I…
Answer byAnn Landers
How do I find balance in a relationship?
I’ve just left a woman I love deeply. she’s my best friend, and I miss her…
Answer byAnn Landers
Are bipolar sufferers abusive?
I’ve heard that people with bipolar disorder aren’t dangerous, but my mom has bipolar disorder and…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Is my low libido caused by childhood experiences?
I am a 19 year old male, who really needs some support and guidance. when I…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How do I manage a complicated love triangle?
I’ve found myself in a situation I never expected. I’m a university student, and not long…
Answer byAnn Landers
How do I help a bipolar friend who has lost touch with reality?
I recently reconnected with an old best friend from grade school. after talking for a few…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Am I bisexual?
I'm a 24-year-old man. I’ve had sex with four women and have been romantically involved with…
Answer byAnn Landers
Are my child’s dreams a cause for concern?
my 10 year old is a bright and gentle child. he has loved reading since he…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can my boyfriend overcome his anger issues?
I have been in an on and off relationship with my boyfriend for about two and…
Answer byAnn Landers
How do I stop unwanted, horrible thoughts?
writing this is a big step for me because I am very ashamed of what I…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Is my son creating false memories because of trauma?
my son was diagnosed with adhd at age 12, and three years later, at 15, he…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Why has anxiety taken over my life?
Anxiety is taking over my daily life.
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
Can I set boundaries with my controlling mother?
my sister passed away last year, and I have been struggling to come to terms with…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How do I talk to my wife about sex?
my question is this: what do you do when you're married to a wonderful woman—someone honest…
Answer byAnn Landers
How could my sister steal my boyfriend?
my sister who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder came to live with me and my…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
What is my bathroom-related phobia called?
I have a strong aversion to bathrooms, whether public or private, especially if anyone besides myself…
Answer byMark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.
Why do I keep using drugs when I know it’s a problem?
I’ve been feeling anxious and depressed since before high school, though I can’t pinpoint exactly when…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How are anxiety disorders different to personality disorders?
I’m confused about the difference between anxiety disorders and personality disorders, especially when it comes to…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How can I overcome exhibitionism and save my marriage?
I'm reaching out for help with a problem that has persisted for decades. I'm 41 years…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.
How do I stand up to my orthodox parents?
I am a 22-year-old woman who recently graduated at the top of my class. I am…
Answer byAnn Landers
How do I handle a daughter who’s out of control?
I’m struggling with a heartbreaking situation with my 19-year-old daughter. over the past year, she’s lied…
Answer byAllan Schwartz, Ph.D.