Hi there, I'm a 35 yo mom to three boys ages 5,4, and 1. My 4 year old was diagnosed autistic. I am newly single after 9 years of marriage and he dropped the bomb on christmas eve. A lot of my friends are single or married w/no kids so I am at a loss and with no one to relate to. My family is trying to be supportive but basically I am the first one to be in this situation.

Hi and welcome. I am sorry you are in this spot, and during the holidays no less. It is hard, but does get easier. Come vent, ask questions, we will all help.

It's been a year for me and it still feels so new. I had so much support when I was married but my married friends don't seem to want a single mom tagging along. It's so hard. BUT.. It's amazing how much strength we can find when we are faced with the task of raising our kids. You can do this. My best advice is to see a counselor. It sounds cheesy but is so helpful in sorting through the anger and pain,and what you can let go of and what you should keep. You CAN do it!

Hi welcme to the forum. I can only imagine how you must feel right now. I do know how it feels to be scared to have three children one with autism(my 6yr old also) and suddenly be all alone. I wont say its easy but I do know that it will be ok. You will go on and you will learn how to take care of yourself and your chidren on your own. And you will be a stronger person for it. We are here and I'm sure you will find the forum to be a great support to lean on during the really hard times.