Talk To Me: I'm dreading meeting relatives at a wedding 

Psychologist Caroline Martin is here to answer your questions on whatever issues you are dealing with in life, from work pressure and stress to loneliness and grief

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There’s a family wedding coming up next month and I’m dreading meeting my relatives. I put on a lot of weight during the pandemic and feel very self-conscious. It doesn’t help that I’m often at a loss for words when in company. I’m thinking of making my excuses and not going — I’ll hardly be missed. Am I being a coward?

Family gatherings can be fraught and we can feel a deep sense of foreboding as the event approaches. But our actions in the lead-up can make all the difference.