A Texas man has written to advice columnist Dear Abby expressing his frustration with his wife's lack of concern about her appearance and her belongings. According to the man, his wife drives a $50,000 car that is never washed and is so cluttered with “stuff” that it can rarely accommodate more than one passenger. The man describes their bedroom as being in a similar state, with clothes piled in front of the dresser and an unmade bed. The messes extend throughout the house, causing embarrassment for the man. Additionally, he mentions his wife's lack of personal care, noting that she often goes days without showering and continues to gain weight while proclaiming she will never be concerned about her weight again. The man believes his wife may have a chemical imbalance and is in need of help.

In response, Dear Abby advises the man to consider whether his wife displayed these behaviors when they were dating or in the early years of their marriage. If not, Abby suggests that the wife be evaluated by a doctor, as her actions may be symptoms of depression or another mental or emotional problem. Abby recommends that the man communicate his concerns to his wife, expressing his love for her but stating that he can no longer live in the current situation. He should offer her a choice: seek help or face the possibility of him leaving.

In another letter, a grieving son from Indiana reaches out to Abby for guidance. The son explains that he has been struggling with the loss of his mother, who passed away ten months ago. He describes his mother as his best friend, who had always been there for him, especially when he came out as gay. The son reflects on his mother's happiness at his wedding and the immense sadness he has felt since her sudden passing. He wonders if it is normal to still feel hurt and sad almost a year later. Abby sympathizes with the son's loss and assures him that everyone grieves differently. She encourages him to continue with therapy, reminding him that there are brighter days ahead.

In a separate inquiry, a woman from North Carolina seeks advice after discovering that the man she has been involved with online is in a relationship with another woman. The woman expresses her deepening feelings for him but is unsure whether he is keeping her around to avoid hurting his current partner or if he simply enjoys having two women in his life. She contemplates reaching out to the man's partner to inform her of the situation. Abby advises the woman to walk away from the relationship entirely. She points out that the man lied about the nature of his relationship with the other woman, indicating a lack of trustworthiness. Abby emphasizes the importance of self-respect and urges the woman not to involve herself further in the situation.

In yet another letter, a person from the South shares their concerns about their parents planning to move closer to them. The person's wife has decided never to visit with the parents again due to a list of complaints, including their behavior towards serving staff in restaurants. However, the person is worried about their inheritance from their parents, which they see as their only hope for retirement. They seek advice on how to handle the situation. Abby finds it disheartening that the person's reluctance to tell their parents not to move closer is solely based on the expected inheritance. She advises the person to discuss the issue with their wife, emphasizing the importance of showing respect to their parents. However, Abby cautions that the wife cannot completely write off the parents due to the financial impact it may have, though she may not have to interact with them as frequently.

Lastly, a frustrated individual shares their experience with a neighborhood group led by their neighbor, Doris. The person explains that Doris had not held any in-person or virtual meetings for three years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Doris recently invited the person to the next meeting, promising that they would have an opportunity to ask questions. At the meeting, the person was cut off and censored by Doris when they attempted to ask questions. The person is unsure how to proceed after feeling burned by Doris's behavior twice. Abby presents two options to the person: either stop attending the meetings or oppose Doris's leadership by running for the position themselves and seeking support from their neighbors for a change in leadership. Abby suggests that it might be time for a fresh start and encourages the person to take action if they have the time and motivation to do so.

Dear Abby, written by Abigail Van Buren (also known as Jeanne Phillips), offers advice and guidance to individuals facing various personal and relational challenges. The column was founded by Abby's mother, Pauline Phillips. Readers can contact Abby through her website, DearAbby.com, or by writing to P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.