I bought a small one and din’t see improvement, but I also didn’t have time to use it twice a day as stated in the directions.

My coping methods: donating to as many groups as I can to counteract Trump/Pence’s destruction of rights & the environment. I’ve decided to do everything I can for my students (I teach in a Title 1 school in one of the poorest municipalities in the country). I see so much anxiety, fear & despair from almost everyone…

The Southern Poverty Law Center is collecting incidents. The link to report is https://www.splcenter.org/reporthate

Your husband & son are beyond rude to you. I’d go on strike, but that’s just me.

(((hugs)))

Can you wear earbuds at work and just listen to music, instead of passive-aggressive whining? If not, put articles about the effects of presenteesim on workplace productivity. Spoiler alert: it’s a negative effect.

Sorry to hear that. I go to my parents’ every week to help them out, but they need more help than that and won’t accept it.

I would’ve kicked them in the balls. Or, really, imagined doing that while replying “A racist joke is still racist.”

There are also other mortgage programs for different occupations. In my state, there are mortgage loan programs for teachers, police officers, firefighters, etc., so if you or your SO work in one of those fields, look into it. Of course, you have to pay PMI (private mortgage insurance) when your downpayment is less…

Tonight’s dinner: tuscan style pasta. Not from scratch, though.

Stop asking them and just cook what you want to eat, unless you really don’t want to cook. If they are hungry enough, they will either eat what you made, or make their own meals.

I like cornbread stuffing. The I bought the Trader Joe’s mix, but this looks good if you want to make it from scratch.

Have you talked to Adult Protective Services in her area? It sounds like she needs a social worker at the very least.

Have you considered going to therapy to deal with the PTSD? There may be social services that can help you find a free provider, or places with reduced rates.

Do you have your own bedroom to escape to? If not, would putting on headphones keep you out of it?

THIS. Volunteer. Go to museums—most will have one day a month with free or very reduced admission. Take up hiking - most state parks don’t charge admission in the off season. Go to free programming at your local library, free lecture at a college. Check Meet Up for any and all interesting groups & events. And most of…

(((((hugs))))

Sorry to hear that you are going through a hard time. If you need help with updating your resume, how to start a job search, etc., contact your college’s career services office - alum almost always qualify for their services. Also check out your state’s Employment office (which people usually call the unemployment…

fingers crossed!

congrats on the promotion!