OPINION | DEAR ABBY: Family navigates complexities of Asperger’s syndrome

Dear Abby: I’m a minor living at home with my parents and my brother. Everything’s pretty stable, but I have problems with my dad.

He has Asperger’s syndrome, and his behavior has caused many issues for me. Every time I try to talk about any concern I have (with him or not involving him), he makes it all about himself. This and other emotionally invalidating behaviors have been happening for so long, and it makes me feel guilty about my feelings.

My therapist has been encouraging me to feel sympathy for how much anxiety my dad has to deal with. Mom tells me he really does love me and it’s just the Asperger’s syndrome that is getting in the way. But I’m tired of hearing about how hard things are for him, and I don’t think I should pay him any respect for his feelings if he doesn’t give me any. His behavior is especially hurtful while I’m struggling with my own mental health issues. Do you have any advice? — Girl In Turmoil

Dear Girl: Yes, I do. Listen more carefully to what your therapist is trying to convey. You share something in common with your father; you both have diagnosed mental disorders. What you expect from him may be beyond his ability to give. This is a sad situation, but the sooner you accept it, the less often you will look to your father for the emotional support he is unable to provide. When you need to discuss your issues, talk to your mother or your therapist, and you may find the support you are seeking.

Dear Abby: For the last 20 years, my wife and I have had a Friday night happy hour tradition. We use the time to get caught up and to reconnect. Occasionally, we’ll invite others, but it’s usually just us, and we like it that way.

Some longtime friends moved to our community recently. We invited them to a couple of happy hours and now our friends keep showing up every Friday.

While we enjoy their company, we want our Fridays back! How do we get out of this arrangement without hurt feelings? — Happy Hour For Two, Please

Dear Happy Hour: You describe this couple as longtime friends. Because their move is recent, they may be having trouble making friends and becoming involved in your community. The next time they show up, you and your wife should suggest some activities and ways for them to widen their circle. Then, the following Tuesday or Wednesday — well before they show up on your doorstep — give them a call and explain that your Friday nights are usually reserved for you and your wife “to get caught up and to reconnect.” Let you know you will invite them for happy hour when you are up for company.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at P.O.Box 69440,LosAngeles,CA 90069 or visit

www.DearAbby.com

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