Sister doesn't seem like family
Your father's treatment toward you -- yelling at you and putting you down -- speaks not only to his anxiety about this, but a sort of bullying behavior that seems to run in the family.
If you have no intention of reconciling with your sister, you should tell him, "I know this is hard for you, but you don't have the right to bully me any more than she does."
Dear Amy: I would like to have someone in my life to confide in. I am married to someone who isn't that person. Every conversation with him turns into an argument. There is no talking to him.
My sister was there for me for most of my life. Now her life is taken up by her own family.
I keep everything to myself, and I know it affects my health. I don't have a best friend, only the wives of my husband's friends, and we are not close like that.
I see a counselor, but you can't talk to them about personal things. What do you suggest?
-- Lonely
Dear Lonely: Your counselor's job is to hear those personal things you hold close. Recharge your therapy by confiding in your counselor. One way to start is to initiate a discussion about your lack of intimate friendships.
You are correct that holding everything in is not good for your health. You should write down your thoughts every day.
Also look for online sources where you can discuss your concerns with other people who might be able to listen and help.
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