How to navigate life alone after my husband left for an affair

[FeistyKoala]

I’m Feeling a bit lost and need advice. My husband is having an affair, I’ve known for a while but he’s recently left (we held it together to get our youngest through exams). I’m happy that he’s gone and things are definitely over. However, I’ve got 2 teenagers who are often out which leaves me at home alone. My best friends live miles away, my couple of local friends have families and I don’t want to be a burden. I’m just wondering how to navigate this new life.

One day or night at a time . It is a huge adjustment for you . On top of the grief at the end of a relationship there is also the practicality of being left to manage a house on your own . When you are ready , take time to figure out what you want to do in the evenings . Socialise , return to learning new skill, joining a group with shared interests . It's a tough course to navigate but there is a lot of support out there and on here as well.

Try and see it as an opportunity - you now have the time to go out and meet new people! Join an exercise class, running group, gardening cooperative, take up a new hobby, volunteer, book a trip away - the world is your oyster. It takes courage to put yourself out there but start small and build your confidence. You have a lot to offer!

This is a tough time and I know exactly how you feel. It can be incredibly lonely and you do need to get used to being alone. I bought a cinema membership and I go regularly. It’s really not a big deal to go on your own. Book yourself in for a treat like a massage. I’ve got into reading and listening to podcasts. I binge watch series on tv. Perhaps see if there are any book groups in your area. Join an exercise class. For your local friends I’d try to get into a monthly routine of having them over for drinks. Then hopefully they’ll reciprocate. Also don’t be afraid to tell people you’re struggling.

See if there are any volunteering opportunities for evenings, something like a locally run/community theatre or hall. Lots of exercise classes are held in the evenings, line dancing. I know a lady that goes to Irish Set dancing in the evenings, she is English.

Turn the page and start a new chapter. A chapter that can be anything you want. Shake off everything from the past. Go back to ground zero!