I fell for his sweet talk

Dear Diana,
I met this guy at a friend's wedding two months ago and from the moment we started talking we got along like fire. We keep on SMSing each other or talking on the phone. Though we have avoided being seen in public as he is about to get engaged. But he tells me he is not happy with the woman. Now this girl has come to know about my existence and has gone berserk. She has made life hell for me and him. I hate myself so much for allowing myself to be drawn into this situation.u00a0 I have cut him out of my life and would like it to remain that way. But he tells me he wants me and there I go falling for his charms. How do I cut myself off from him?
- MD


Illustration/Satish Acharya

Dear MD,
He knows that you are falling for his charms. So he sweet talks you into doing things for him. What you need is a steely resolve not to be swayed by his smooth talking. As it is you are regretting what you have done and the woman he is going to engaged to is making life difficult for everyone around. It is better that you leave this scenario and not get into this mess. Think of what future you have with this man. The woman will not let him off that easily. Remember this guy has a sugar-coated tongue and a gift of the gab. Tell him to let you be and put his life on track with the woman.

Can't think of marrying my cousin

Dear Diana,
My folks are thinking of marrying me to a cousin. In our community it is okay to wed first cousins. But I am not too keen about it. How do I tell them? He is my father's sister's son.
-u00a0Name withheld on request

Dear Friend,
The elders in the family may have their reasons but you need to tell your viewpoint too. Take help of an elder relative. As he is a cousin, you can also share your fears with him. May be he, too, may not be keen. But remember to go slow and with tact to avoid offending family folk.

I am suffering from post-natal depression

Dear Diana,
I am suffering from post-natal depression. My baby was born premature and needed to be incubated. He is okay now but the rounds of doctors have not stopped. I feel so depressed about what has happened. My husband doesn't understand as he feels the baby is my worry. I have been sitting up in the nights with the baby. My life has gone for a toss. I feel hurt, lonely and angry at what has happened. What should I do?
-u00a0CT

Dear CT,
Several new mums experience post-natal depression but people don't understand it. Family members may think it is all in the mind as your life changes with a baby in the house. Nursing the newborn and being there around 24/7 nights without sleep can be quite taxing. You need to urgently talk to your doctor and seek help to overcome your depression.