Q: I am having trouble trusting people. Every guy I have ever dated has either cheated on me or lied to me.  My close friends act a certain way, and then in front of other people are completely different people. I just feel that everyone I meet is a fake liar, and I have no idea how to stop feeling this way. What should I do?

A: It is natural to feel the way you do with the experiences that you have had. The reason why you feel the way you do when you meet people is a survival mechanism to protect yourself. My best advice to you is try and give people chances, just do not give 100% of yourself until they have earned it. Beware of the worst in people, but try and focus more on the positive.

Q: My mom is taking over my life! She goes through my cell phone and checks my text messages, goes through my computer and reads all my instant messenger conversations, and on top of all that still doesn’t trust me! I am a really good girl, but she doubts me so much that it’s killing me. HELP!

A: I am sorry that this is what it has come down to, but you need to understand your mother’s concern.  My advice to you is to have a nice little chat with her and tell her all of your concerns. Explain to her very calmly and rationally that your privacy is very valuable to you. If that doesn’t work try and compromise, take an hour or so every night to tell her what is going on in your life. Communication is the key, the more you communicate, the more your mother will learn to trust you.

Q: I just started University, and I am having trouble making new friends. I have always had friends my whole life, so this transition is really hard for me, especially now that my best friends are so far away.  What do you recommend that I do?

A: The transition to University can be quite challenging. Not only do you need to adapt to a new environment, but also to new people. I would suggest joining a couple of campus organizations/clubs. Not only is it a great way to meet fellow students, but it is also a great way to meet people with the same interests as you. Try and involve yourself with the campus life, and you will soon find many friends. What you are going through is very normal, hang in there!

Q:I am from Israel and I have a Palestinian boyfriend, but both our families are against our marriage. Is it right for us to keep pursuing marriage or should we abandon our love to satisfy our parents?

A: If you pursue it and your parents forbid it, they will disown you, or you pursue it and they eventually get over it. Another option, don't pursue it and move on. Discuss converting religions. It can break the barrier between your parents and him. My suggestion to you is to sit down and have a conversation with your parents. Try to get both families together for dinner in public. Try to get your points across. Best of luck!