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Q: My wife and I have been married for 14 years. She’s a nurse and I’m in a high level security government position. As I’ve advanced, my work has become more classified, causing me to share less and less. She is very understanding. She knew what I did and what my training was, but things have changed over the last year. I’ve seen associates of mine in the field whose marriages have crumbled. I fear our marriage is eroding and I’m going to lose her. – Doug, 50

Dr. Susan: Sounds like the plot of one of those spy films. If your marriage is eroding, it may have little to do with your job. If you can’t share your day-to-day activities, you could make an effort to find other things to share. Gossip about friends. Discuss the news. Learn more about medical issues so you both can talk about her work. Find at least one activity you can share and discuss, from dancing to a book club to some community activity. Pay attention to her, show affection, talk in a general way about what’s important to you without giving away secrets. You’re right to take any noticeable erosion in your closeness seriously, so speak openly to her about your fears. Lots of couples remain close without necessarily knowing much about each other’s work lives.