My ex is an addict. n now i am a single mom.

Kayla - posted on 06/28/2012

Hi Katelyn,

I was in an almost identical position, minus full time school, I was only part time finishing my degree. I lost a lot of my friends during that time because they didn't understand what I was going through. It was a horrible and stressful time, and at times I thought there was no way I could go on. I got into therapy, and since I didn't have my friends to talk to, that really helped to get my feelings out. I even briefly went on antidepressants which helped me out as well. At that point, I did what I had to do to get through each day, and that's what helped me.

My advice is to take each day one at a time. Sometimes even each hour! It won't always be like this and every day brings you closer to a time you don't have to struggle so hard. I was so stressed sometimes, it was hard to enjoy time with my son, so make sure you enjoy every moment you can with your baby!

Look into public assistance if you can. Sometimes a little extra boost and support can make things a lot easier. Sometimes there are churches who can help out, and public assistance programs can point you in their direction. You never know, maybe you wouldn't have to work the part time job.

Good luck, you can do it, be strong for you and your baby!

Kristin - posted on 06/27/2012

Katelyn,

I was in the samne situation as you except I was on baby number 3. To save time and money I finished my degree with online schooling so I was able to work at my own pace and study once the kids were in bed. I completed my degreee in half the time and am still working on a couple other degrees as well. If you can you should try to quit the part time job or find something to do at home for extra cash ( i did nails part time as well as worked full time and school) as you do not want to burn out and exhaust yourself as you still have a child to care for and he needs to have evenings and days off with mommy. I know it is hard financially but how much are you really gaining by working 2 jobs as you pay out more in child care, fuel costs etc. It does get better in time just be strong and stay positive.

Louise - posted on 06/27/2012

Katelyn you are an inspiration to all mums. You should be so proud of yourself for working so hard for a better future for your child. It will all be worth it in the end. This dead beat dad has missed so much and in the distant future he will regret no being their for his child. You cant turn back the clock and do things differently you can only look forward to the future. You have worked to support your child and to achieve a better life by going back to school. Hang on in their there is light at the end of the tunnel. Once qualified you can apply for better jobs and hopefully gain enough of a pay rise to stop the part time job. Things will work out for you, you are a winner. As for this fella droping in when he pleases, I think not, if he wants to see the child he has to make arrangements in advance and stick to them. I hope you are getting some sort of child support, if not file for it. Every penny helps when raising a child.

Lisa - posted on 06/27/2012

Hang in there Katelyn. Its not easy but its so worth it. At least you made the decision to keep your child out of that environment.

I left my ex because he has Peter Pan Syndrome. Wont grow up, spends his weekends "partying" like he's a sixteen year old kid. And for the past nine years its been just me and my boy. And I wouldnt have it any other way. We found our groove and you will find yours too.

Just remember, everything is hard in the beginning......good luck.