Author Archive: Irene
Author Irene S. Levine, PhD, is The Friendship Doctor, dispensing expert advice on The Friendship Blog.
Friendship Trends: 9 Ways The Pandemic Has Changed Our Friendships
The pandemic has changed our friendships. Here are 9 pandemic friendship trends culled from members of “The Friendship Blog Connection.”
How Do I Deal WIth A Pushy Person?
How do you deal with a pushy person? Two women met in a workshop but one wants more of a friendship than does the other.
When Exchanging Gifts Feels Awkward
During the pandemic, even exchanging gifts with friends can feel strange when everything else seems to be topsy-turvy.
Pandemic-Related Losses: How To Show A Friend You Care
A reader wonders how to respond to friends experiencing pandemic-related losses. QUESTION I have several friends right now who are going through VERY trying situations. In a few instances, I’ve sent people emails expressing my commiseration but I’m wondering what, if anything, to do next when I don’t hear back from them. Do you think […]
My Friend Has Mental Health Problems: How Can I Help Her?
When a friend has mental health problems it can be hard to know how to help, especially during the pandemic.
Friendship Divided By Politics
Divided by politics, a long-term friendship seems to be on the verge of falling apart. A woman asks whether she should cut it off for a while.
Losing Support From a Circle of Friends
A young woman feels excluded from a circle of friends, a second loss after a molar pregnancy, and seeks advice.
Am I Obliged To Give Free Services To Family And Friends?
A semi-retired couple is often asked to devote their time and skills to providing free services to people they know who don’t want to pay professionals. They have a hard time saying NO.
Retired and Feeling Disconnected
Many people are feeling disconnected during the pandemic. This retired therapist has lost her friends and seeks advice.
Feeling Left Out Of A Pandemic Bubble?
A pandemic bubble (or pod) offers people a new way to connect together in person, both for social reasons and practical ones.
