Don’t endure world’s craziness all by your yourself

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 21/03/2025 (512 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

DEAR MISS LONELYHEARTS: I must be going nuts. I’m feeling bombarded by all the distressing world news lately. It feels like going to a bad movie and you can’t get out the doors to leave the theatre. So, like a fool you turn around and watch more of it. How much can a someone take in before they get ill?

Yesterday I decided to work at home for a day and not have to get stuck in conversations with co-workers about everything that’s going on.

But even alone at home I couldn’t help myself. I automatically reached over and tuned on the news and tried to get involved in my work at the same time.

There was nobody at home but me, so I just watched more and more news on TV. I’m a glutton for punishment.

Today I was feeling upset and thinking I might even go back to church, although I haven’t been there since marriage-prep classes.

I get an upset stomach at some point every day. I want to stop worrying and start sleeping well again. What should I do?

— Addicted to Bad News? The Maples

Dear Addicted: See your doctor about your anxiety and the physical symptoms. Also talk to your wife about what’s been upsetting you.

To get closer, consider implementing some “distraction therapy.” Lovemaking is a great distraction and also an emotional stabilizer and natural sleep aid. So put that at the top of your list. Couples really need each other in troubling times.

Also get yourselves signed up for something fun in a group setting such as a mixed baseball team, walking club or dance group — it’s great for the body, for mood elevation and for making new friends.

Back home, consider some creative activities or crafting together, which can really get your mind off the outside world while doing something productive.

Dear Miss Lonelyhearts: I met a heavily bearded guy with big glasses who looked familiar. I stared at him in the bar until he caught me. Then he suddenly winked and there was a big booming laugh — I then knew it was my ex from a few years ago behind all that facial hair.

I went over to him and he grabbed me in a big hug. We actually hung on a little too long — and I felt a ring in his breast pocket. I poked at it, and he told me not to worry about the wedding ring since he and his wife were officially separated.

I said, “Separated for the night?” and he replied, “Nope, separated a month ago.”

I suddenly felt tears coming and decided I needed to be somewhere else, so I ran out to my car.

Now I’m having second thoughts. Was I right to run away? Should I have given it a try? Maybe things have changed.

— Crying Alone, South St. Vital

Dear Crying: He and his wife broke up four short weeks ago, and he’s out at the bar alone hiding his wedding ring? Watch out, girlfriend.

Even if that hug felt really warm and good (except for the ring poke) you may need a guy with some of this ex’s best traits — but not this guy.

Please send your questions and comments to lovecoach@hotmail.com or Miss Lonelyhearts c/o the Winnipeg Free Press, 1355 Mountain Ave., Winnipeg, MB, R2X 3B6.

Maureen Scurfield
Advice columnist

Maureen Scurfield writes the Miss Lonelyhearts advice column.

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