By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

Danice Akiyoshi

A Letter from a Frustrated Friend:

Q:  My best friend has not returned my calls for the last three months.  The last time I saw her she told me she was having personal problems.  I guess maybe she has the blues, but I’m getting really frustrated and I wonder if maybe I have done something wrong.  She lives over one hour away.  Should I visit her and force her to talk to me?

A:  Call your friend once again and let her know your concerns.  Ask her to at least let you know if she is okay, using the communication method of her choice.  Tell her a text message is perfectly fine if she isn’t up to chatting.  Do not make this situation about you.  Some people are extremely private when they are facing tough situations and prefer to work through their issues on their own.  If this is your friend’s style, then do whatever you need to do to make sure she feels supported.  Let her know you are there for her when she feels up to talking again.  Consider sending an occasional card or note as a way to express your friendship without pestering her.  However, if you suspect your friend is in true emotional danger, go see for yourself, and get the appropriate support she needs.  Follow your heart on this one.

Danice Akiyoshi is a Naturopathic Doctor and the head of Candid Coaching Service. She offers personal coaching services relating to all types of issues and concerns. This is a letter she received from an anonymous reader. To send a question to Danice, email her atstraighttalk@candidcoachingservices.com. You can also visit her website at http://www.candidcoachingservices.com.23