7 Things you should never tell people about your relationship

5. When one (or both) of you is going through something private.

It sounds like a given, but Firstein says it’s worth repeating: If your partner confides in you about a privatefamily matter (his sibling has a serious health condition, for example) or a less-than-ideal situation he’s in (like the loss of a job), keep your mouth shut. When he opens up to you like that, it’s proof that he trusts you and your ability to handle the situation in a respectful manner, she says.

Don’t break that trust by opening up to someone else — even if it’s simply because you’re looking for advice on how to console him. Instead, “it’s best to just listen and be there,” says Firstein. “It’s a touchy issue, but the best thing you can do is let him talk, and be caring and empathetic.”