Do I have to risk losing them just to speak my mind? Compromise can be hard says our elder—but it may be worth it to keep the peace. Dear EWC:…
My filthy home
I’m sick of cleaning up after a busy mom, two teen brothers and a dog — but I can’t live in filth. Do what you can without driving yourself crazy,…
Should I forgive my stepdad?
My parents are divorcing and I know it’s hard for my stepdad… but after a falling-out, he still owes me an apology, right? Give yourself a little time, says our…
Moving out but Dad keeps crying
I want to move into a house my grandparents left me, but my dad isn’t taking it well. Our elder warns against being held hostage to a parent’s emotions —…
No, I don’t want to see Mom!
I am estranged from my mom but she just tried to establish contact. How can I deal with it? Why not write her a letter, says our elder. You don’t…
Mom and Dad are sex buddies
My divorced parents have started hooking up and now I’m totally confused. Should I speak up? Absolutely, says our elder. Therapy can definitely help. Dear EWC I am 13 with…
My brother the manipulator
I love my brother but he’s thoughtless and entitled. Our elder thinks a few other adjectives might be appropriate… and has some suggestions on how to establish boundaries. Dear EWC…
Cuckoo in the nest
My brother’s girlfriend moved in during the pandemic and now I feel miserable in my own house. It doesn’t help that my mom is close to her. Start by having…
They’re called boundaries, Dad!
It’s great that my dad has been helping to look after my son, but now I can’t get rid of him. Establish a schedule, says our elder — for childcare…
My parents v my dream school
I got a scholarship to a great school but my parents wouldn’t let me go. Take a deep breath and move on, says our elder. Dear EWC I have ADHD,…