The Atlantic

Dear Therapist: How Do I Stop My Wife From Leaving Me?

I love her, but her criticism just pushes me away.

Editor’s Note: Every Wednesday, Lori Gottlieb answers questions from readers about their problems, big and small. Have a question? Email her at dear.therapist@theatlantic.com.

Dear Therapist,

My wife has given up on me and is threatening to leave. She has given me six months to find treatment for the lack of emotion I am displaying toward her. I am 64 years old and love her very much. We have only been married for a couple of years. (I was previously happily married, but my first wife died of ovarian cancer.)

My wife says that I just don’t display affection to the degree she craves.

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