DEAR ABBY: My niece and I have always had a strong bond. Her son and his wife were expecting a baby. Most of my family knew, but they didn’t want to tell anyone until she reached her second trimester.

My niece told me. I was supposed to keep it a secret. I have been depressed because my son is going through a divorce and my psychiatrist put me on a new medication. While I was on the medication, for some reason I forgot about keeping it a secret and sent a text to her son congratulating him.

My niece is beyond angry at me. I told her I don’t know why I did that. Come to find out the medication can cause “confusion.” I told my doctor what happened, and she verified it. I explained to my niece about the medication. Although we don’t live close, we usually talk a lot. We haven’t spoken since this. I have apologized. I would love to have that bond again. Is there anything I can do? — SPILLED THE SECRET

DEAR SPILLED: You have already done what you can. Your niece is now going to have to work through her anger and disappointment. However, if and when that happens, do not expect to be her confidant again. That ship has likely sailed.

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Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.