A problem shared: Our therapist Anita Naik tackles your concerns
Mum-of-two Anita Naik has been an agony aunt for 25 years
Q I've been married for 15 years and my husband and I are in a rut. We get on and still have sex now and then, but we never go out together. We’re either with the kids or his family, and when we’re by ourselves we just don’t talk. It’s not awkward but we have nothing to say. I want to suggest we start doing things as a couple again, but I’m afraid that being alone will show we have nothing in common. Lauren, 41, Leeds
A It’s very easy to lose sight of being a couple when you have kids and an endless list of chores. This is why having regular date nights are so important. Going out together forces you to do the things you used to when you first met – chat, have a laugh and talk about more than the kids. It’s like a relationship muscle that needs to be exercised and, while it will be bit awkward at first, you’ll be surprised at how quickly it comes back the more ‘dates’ you have.
Losing weight has changed her
Q My 30-year-old sister has been overweight for nearly all her life, but in the last 18 months she’s lost 4st. This has led to a massive change in her personality. She’s become very flirty and over-confident and I feel I don’t know her any more. Should I talk to her about toning it down? Ellie, 33, Bournemouth
A Weight loss is a major transformation and with it comes more confidence and a change in behaviour, which can be hard for friends and family. What you need to remember is that your sister feels good about herself – possibly for the first time in years – and this is something to celebrate. Support the new person that’s emerged, don’t make her feel bad about it.