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Regretting not trying again with my ex and feeling isolated

6 replies

BlackDolphins · 09/05/2026 20:08

I don’t really know what I’m asking for here, maybe just a vent or to see if anyone else relates.
My ex broke up with me, but afterwards he did try a few times to get back together and I said no each time. At the time I thought I was doing the right thing, but now I honestly regret it.
I haven’t met anyone since, and with having the kids full time, I don’t really have the opportunity to. What’s shocked me most is how much it feels like society expects mums with children to just stay alone forever. People say “surround yourself with friends and family”, but what if you don’t really have either? I’ve drifted from family over the years because the relationships weren’t healthy, and I don’t really have friends either.
The thought of spending the next 18 years alone feels overwhelming. I’m already halfway through it, and it’s become painfully clear how isolated my life is. If I’d known loneliness could feel this intense, I probably would’ve given my ex another chance.
It genuinely hurts sometimes. I can go weeks without having a proper conversation with another adult, apart from saying a few words to staff at my children’s school. That’s basically my social interaction.
I never imagined I’d regret not trying again with my ex, but I think I do now and it’s far too late. I missed my chance to try again.
How are people supposed to cope with years and years of this? I didn’t choose to be a single mum. He left me.
Maybe I just want to know I’m not the only one who feels like this.

OP posts:
Grghf · 10/05/2026 06:21

Why dont you have friends you can turn to? 🫂

Marlena1 · 10/05/2026 08:07

That sounds really tough. Could you do anything while the DC are at school? I'm not sure if you work but a part time job in those hours could get you out and meeting people. Also if you're halfway there, that means in a few years you'll have more freedom as you could go out for an hour or two in the evening.

Notmycircusnotmyotter · 10/05/2026 08:43

Don't you work?

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BlackDolphins · 10/05/2026 09:27

Notmycircusnotmyotter · 10/05/2026 08:43

Don't you work?

Have you read my post? I’ve been caring for a disabled child for the last few years who hasnt attended school i am a full time carer.

OP posts:
BlackDolphins · 10/05/2026 09:28

Marlena1 · 10/05/2026 08:07

That sounds really tough. Could you do anything while the DC are at school? I'm not sure if you work but a part time job in those hours could get you out and meeting people. Also if you're halfway there, that means in a few years you'll have more freedom as you could go out for an hour or two in the evening.

No I won’t be able to my disabled child cant be left alone and needs 24/7 supervision gets hrc for this. I am studying during school hours

OP posts:
BlackDolphins · 10/05/2026 09:29

Grghf · 10/05/2026 06:21

Why dont you have friends you can turn to? 🫂

Because I lost most of them when I become a parent and was no longer fun for them and was stuck at home all day caring for a disabled child unable to go out or do anything.

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