My daughter is struggling to cope since my girlfriend ghosted me

DEAR DEIDRE: MY girlfriend ghosted me and now I’m dealing with the collateral damage from my daughter, who doesn’t understand why we are back to spending our weekends alone.

I’m a guy of 39 who works from home. My daughter is six and she’s the light of my life. She struggles with learning difficulties and she’s a bit full-on, but she’s a bundle of fun.

Last year, I met a wonderful 36 year-old woman who has a son at my daughter’s school. He’s five and he has ADHD. 

We started dating and having sex. I couldn’t have been happier.

I’m widowed so it was lovely for my little girl to have a mother figure around. Weekends were trips to the seaside or picnics in the park. It was great.

My girlfriend then stopped replying to my texts. It went on for a few days and when I confronted her at the school gate she got very upset.

I eventually got her to open up and apparently she’s struggling with a gambling problem and couldn’t cope with a relationship.

I told her she should have talked to me but she insisted we were over. She’s blocked my number now and avoids me.

I’m so upset and my daughter thinks she’s caused the issue.

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DEIDRE SAYS: Your ex’s behaviour was harsh but it also suggests that she feels incredibly ashamed and isn’t in a place to open up properly or maintain a romantic relationship.

I’m afraid she’s made it clear she doesn’t want to continue the relationship and for all your sakes you would be better off accepting her wishes. 

There are plenty of resources and support for people with gambling and if she does start 

to talk to you again perhaps you might feel comfortable directing her towards them. My support pack for gambling has plenty of information. 

Gingerbread (, 0808 802 0925) for single parents will help you meet other single parents.