I FEEL LIKE A SINGLE PARENT

Dear Coleen

I don’t know whether to stay with my partner of two years. We met at work, still work together and recently had a baby, but I feel like a single parent. I do everything for our baby, even though I also work full time.

We used to have such a good time together before our son was born but now I’m beginning to regret starting a romantic relationship with him.

I don’t know what to do because I do love him, but I’m starting to hate everything about our relationship.

Also, how would I cope working so close to him if we split?

Coleen says

Things have happened really fast for the two of you and babies can be a shock for any relationship, even if you’ve been together 10 years. If anything is going to test it, then a child will. Being a parent is a wonderful thing, but it is challenging.

And people do handle parenting completely differently. Even if you think you know someone really well, you find out different sides to them when a baby comes along. And in your case, you probably didn’t know each other that well before you got pregnant.

So I wouldn’t throw the towel in just yet because you’re feeling the pressure, but you do need to start working as a team.

Have you discussed how you’re feeling and that you’re struggling to cope with all that’s expected of you?

The only way you’ll find space and time for each other is if you pull together. If you still love him, then discuss the fairness of it – he can’t just opt out if he wants to be part of the relationship. And be upfront about how close you are to calling it quits – he needs to know you’re serious.

Focus on sorting your life out at home first before worrying about your working relationship.