Ask Jennifer

Jennifer Campbell, The Runner’s resident advice columnist, answers your toughest questions. If you have an anonymous question for Jennifer, leave a comment below.

Dear Jennifer,
I have been in an exclusive relationship with my boyfriend for over 3 years. I have just recently wanted to open things up. How do I bring this up without upsetting or losing him?

Signed, Wanting More

Dear Wanting,
The best bet is to just be open and honest with your guy. There is a good chance that he will be upset or even confused. He may want to end things. You need to prepare yourself for that. But there is also a good chance that he will be okay with opening up the relationship. If you both decide to open up the relationship then you both should agree on some ground rules. Like always use protection, don’t talk about the other people you are seeing etc. Just make sure to be honest.

Dear Jennifer,
A friend of mine just recently committed suicide. Since then I have become very depressed and do not know what to do. Please help.

Signed, Sad & Depressed

Dear Sad,
I know what you are going through. I also have lost a friend to suicide. It is one of the hardest things to try to understand or go through. I found that by talking to friends who knew him helped a lot. Hearing stories about how we all met him and how much he meant to us helped me accept the fact that he was gone. It also helped me realize how much he having him in my life changed me for the better. After realizing how much of himself he unknowingly instilled in me it was like he was not really gone. Find someone who is willing to listen and be there for you.

Dear Jennifer,
I have a co-worker who often comes to work without showering. This would be fine is she did not smell horrible. Everyone is starting to talk about her in the office. We are not really friends but I am wondering if and how I should bring it up.

Signed Pinching Nose

Dear Pinching,
I would be honest with your co-worker. She may not even realize that she smells and will probably feel embarrassed. Bringing up this situation should be done delicately. However, if you do not feel comfortable talking to her about it because you are not friends then find out whom her friends are in the office and talk to them and ask them to say something to her.