We've all been there: Someone who we trust deeply stabs us in the back, and our world comes crashing down in an instant. We may be in denial at first, refusing to accept the fact that someone so near and dear to us could fritter away our trust. Once we come to terms with what has occurred, we may find it difficult to confide in anyone again for a while. Perhaps you discovered that your partner cheated on you. Maybe you caught your coworker spreading rumors about you behind your back. Or, you realized that your friend of 20 years has been stealing money from you. No matter the form of deception, it can be devastating. In the worst cases, such events can wreak havoc on one's self-esteem, leading to depression and other negative health outcomes. So what happens next? As the victim, that's really up to you. You were wronged and can pursue whatever course of action you deem fair. If he or she displays genuine remorse -- including a sincere apology that feels like it...

Have you noticed that compulsive liars can never quite shake off their nasty habit? Sure, everyone fibs from time to time, but chronic liars make lying a pastime. They're dishonest to everyone from their parents to the mailman. I try my best not to associate myself with people of this ilk, but it isn't always to pinpoint liars -- at least not in the beginning. Unfortunately, many people -- namely friends and relatives -- continually give these individuals free passes, thus fueling their desire to perpetuate the behavior. They start to think, "Hey, if I can get away with it, I'll continue to lie." Lying is a surefire way to demolish a friendship or relationship. Communication and trust comprise the cornerstone of a relationship -- in the absence of one or both of these crucial variables, it is doomed to fail. Bottom line: Don't let liars get away with it. Put the offender in his place and make it clear that if he respects you and values your bond toge...