Mum-of-two Anita Naik has been an agony aunt for 32 years
ANITA NAIK
He manipulated me into sending money
Q Last year, I was swept up in what I believed to be a romance with a man I met online. Then I realised he was manipulating me into sending him money (£2,500 over the year). I had to tell my son and daughter, which was very painful. I’m left feeling old, stupid, ashamed and wary of trusting anyone ever again.
A Frauds and scams are the scourge of modern life, and the romance scam is one of the hardest to overcome. It leaves you feeling heartbroken, gutted and ashamed, even though you are the victim. But remember, you’re not alone. You weren’t foolish; you fell for a convincing scam that was waged against you over a long period. It’s something that could happen to any of us.
WHAT COMES NEXT?
Q As a woman in my late 50s, I grapple with loneliness and a lack of fulfilment. I’ve always prioritised my job as a teacher, then family responsibilities. Now I’m retired and wondering what comes next. I live alone and see one or two friends once a month, but I can go for days without speaking to anyone.
AIt’s not uncommon for people who have dedicated much of their lives to their careers and families to experience a sense of loss when those roles change. You can also start to believe you don’t matter to others when you do. Reach out. At the same time, talk to your GP about your moo
