Husband is threatened by woman’s conversations with father of her kids

Dear Abby: My husband, “Daryl,” gets furious every time I talk to my ex, my two oldest kids’ father. The only thing we discuss is my kids’ issues, but Daryl loses it completely. He starts calling me names and says I don’t respect him even though I do. I keep assuring him that there’s nothing inappropriate being talked about.

I don’t know what to do anymore. My kids are 14- and 13-year-old girls, who are going through all these crazy teenage issues, which obviously, as their parents, my ex and I have to sometimes talk about, and it’s not even that many calls. I’m wondering if this is normal. I’m 33, and I feel like a goofball for not knowing what to do.

— Tough Situation

in Texas

Dear Tough Situation:

No, it is not normal. Your husband’s jealousy and insecurity are over the top. It’s time to talk about this with a licensed marriage and family therapist because Daryl’s behavior is abusive.

Dear Abby: I have been diagnosed with PTSD by my doctor. I thought only people who have been in military combat would receive a PTSD diagnosis.

I have had a lifetime of verbal abuse from my mother. Once she had broken my spirit with rants of “dummy,” “stupid” and “I wish you had never been born,” I was easy prey for my older brother. To get laughs, he never misses a chance to make fun of me in public.

On second thought, I guess I HAVE been through combat. Abby, do you have any ideas how to make life somewhat bearable?

— Constantly Hurting

Dear Constantly:

I sure do! Ask your doctor for a referral to a psychotherapist with expertise in family dysfunction and PTSD.