Q.I am in my late 70's and have a travel companion that I love to go places with. She is very superstitious - we have to leave through the same door we came in and heaven forbid there's a 13 anywhere - our bill, the menu - anywhere!

I would like to continue traveling with her, but sometimes it's a little weird. I usually just go along with her odd behavior but is this something I should be afraid of?

Like if one of these things happened (like a 13 or a black cat) what do you think would happen? Could she snap and maybe be violent or something?

A. It does sound like your friend has many superstitions. Just remember that they are HERS!

These are beliefs that she has developed to help her feel more safe/secure. You (and others) may see this as odd, but apparently it has not played a role in the feelings as a friend you have for her.

Given the behaviors you described, this does not sound like an issue that you need to be fearful about.

Q. When does quirky become a problem?

A. "Quirky" becomes a problem when it interferes with an individuals ability to appropriately care for themselves or (when applicable) others.

Q.I have started to do some repetitive behaviors - like checking and re-checking that I turned the stove off or counting things - like when I chop celery or onions or anything i find myself counting the pieces.

It doesn't bother me, but I am concerned that it will increase and become a problem late on. Should I be worried? What can I do?

A. What you are describing is not uncommon for people.

It is important to realize however that if these behaviors that you describe, begin to limit/interfere with your ability to participate in everyday events, activities or relationships with people, an intervention by a mental health specialist may be in order.

There are many medications available today to help people with this problem.