2 publishers · first seen Wed, 28 Oct 2026 11:00 UTC · updated Mon, 02 Nov 2026 12:00 UTC
A woman in Texas wrote to Dear Abby expressing distress over intrusive thoughts of wanting to be in a car accident or injured, despite having a fulfilling life with a supportive partner and family. She is 42 years old and has struggled with self-esteem issues in the past, which have improved over time, but she continues to feel unworthy of happiness. She fears discussing the thoughts with a mental health professional due to concerns about medication or hospitalization. Abby reassured her that she is not alone and encouraged her to speak with a licensed counselor.
Another letter came from a 39-year-old woman in the Northwest who has been with her husband for 20 years and is struggling with intrusive thoughts about an ex-boyfriend. She connected with him by phone but ended contact, and he later reached out again through a mutual friend. Abby advised her to fully let go of her husband’s past infidelities and to block the ex-boyfriend, suggesting couples counseling if needed to rekindle intimacy.
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