Churlish customers make life even more stressful for clerk

Dear Abby: I work at a grocery store and have been struggling. People are overwhelmed and have been taking it out on us.

I asked one person, “How are you doing today?” The response I got was, “I’m not interested in conversation. Just feed me!” Another didn’t utter a single word except to exclaim, “I’ve got it!” when I offered her a bottle opener for her soda. Then she snatched her change out of my hand.

We employees are stressed about the same things as everyone else. We are also struggling to get the same products as everyone else. I had to shop at five different stores to get what I need and still haven’t got some things.

Between the stress of the virus and the stress of being treated rudely, my mental health is running low. I have struggled on and off with depression and anxiety. Many of my coping methods are unavailable to me due to closures. Could you please remind your readers that we are all in the same boat and need to be kinder, and direct those of us who are struggling emotionally to resources we can access? —

Struggling In Retail

Dear Struggling: I agree that many people react badly when under stress, like the customers you described. But many others respect and appreciate the efforts so many in the food supply chain make every day — at the risk of your health. I am one of them.

Because you have had issues with depression and anxiety, consider contacting the therapist you worked with to inquire about online sessions. Just talking with friends or like-minded co-workers about what you are experiencing could also bring some relief.

If that isn’t possible, consider exploring whether there are online support groups for retail workers. If there aren’t, consider starting one so you and others can exchange ideas about coping with these extremely stressful circumstances.

Dear Abby: My husband loves our cat too much. He buys her special treats, talks nicely to her, plants quick kisses on the top of her head and lets her sit on his lap for hours. It’s like I’m nonexistent.

I wish he would be that nice to me.

When we are away from the house, I have his full attention. What should I do? I’d like to take her back to the animal shelter. It was my sorry idea to adopt her. — In

Second Place

Dear Second Place: Find reasons to spend more time with your husband away from the house. Then adopt a dog. If you do, make sure you are the one who feeds and walks it, unless your husband has such an affinity for pets that adopting another one isn’t worth the risk. Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren,also known as Jeanne Phillips,and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069 or visit