Dear Kerry
My partner of five years has left me and our two young children.
I am finding it very hard to cope.
I am completely on my own.
I don’t have many reliable friends and my family are many miles away.
I’m so lonely and I’m worried I might be depressed.
Toni, 29, Orsett
Dear Toni
Your children could be one route out of your loneliness.
Ask your health visitor about playgroups and your library about children’s events – both good ways of meeting other parents.
Try your leisure centre for classes, too. Many offer creche facilities.
Visit online communities such as www.mumsnet.com to chat to others in a similar situation and find out about local activities.
Gingerbread, the organisation for one-parent families, can help with support and information – www.ginger bread.org.uk If you think you may be depressed, talk to your GP and consider Therapy For You, the free NHS counselling service.
! You can call Therapy For You on 01268 739128, email confidential@therapyfor you.co.uk, visit the website therapyforyou.co.uk, or ask your GP.
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