Horrible break-up with long-term partner has left me too scared to date again

DEAR DEIDRE: AFTER being with my partner for more than a decade, our relationship ended with an horrific fight three years ago.

We had our ups and downs, but he became distant and angry and took his work and family problems out on me.

Having celebrated my 50th birthday at the weekend, I’m so angry that I am now left in this position – alone.

As a woman, I don’t want to go through the dating scene because it is horrendous.

But I cannot believe that this is now it for me.

I know this must sound muddled because, while I do love being by myself, I don’t want it to be for ever – and not meet someone new.

Every problem gets a personal reply from one of our trained counsellors.

You can also send a private message on the DearDeidreOfficial Facebook page.

I never thought that I would end up as this sad, lonely person.

DEIDRE SAYS: It is tough to find yourself alone after years of being in a couple.

Get into sports or volunteering.

The more friends you make, the better the chance one of them will turn out to be right for you.

Check out meetup.com which shows events and clubs in your local area.

My support pack Widening Your Social Scene also lists lots of ideas.

Horrible break-up with long-term partner has left me too scared to date again | The Sun