Agony aunt Coleen Nolan has responded to a heartfelt letter from a reader struggling with the emotional fallout of divorce, specifically the fear of losing her close bond with her former husband's family.
The Heart of the Dilemma
The reader explained that her ex-husband left her for another woman. Despite this, his family have been incredibly supportive, condemning his actions and affirming their continued love for her and their two shared children.
They have expressed a strong desire to remain actively involved, offering help with childcare and maintaining regular contact. The reader also shares a good relationship with her ex's sisters and their families.
The Source of Anxiety and Jealousy
The situation became more painful when her ex introduced his new partner to the family at a recent gathering. The reader, who did not attend, was left feeling upset and jealous, worried about being replaced in the family unit she cherishes.
She wrote to Coleen questioning the long-term practicality of staying close, stating, "They’ve been like a second family to me and the thought of this other woman replacing me really hurts."
Coleen Nolan's Realistic Advice
In her response published on 16 December 2025, Coleen acknowledged a painful, often unspoken truth of breakups: the loss of extended family and friends.
She affirmed that while the support from the ex-in-laws is lovely, the reader is right to anticipate seeing less of them. "Ultimately, his family have to accept that if they still want a relationship with him," Coleen advised, referring to the ex-husband's new relationship.
She stressed it may not be realistic for the reader to attend all family events, especially if the ex and his new partner are present. However, Coleen emphasised that this doesn't mean the connection must end entirely.
"You can certainly make sure the kids still see their family," she noted, suggesting a separate, enduring friendship outside of major gatherings is possible. She reassured the reader that feeling jealous is natural but advised that "space can be filled with new relationships."
Coleen's final counsel was one of cautious optimism mixed with realism, advising the reader to let time reveal the new family dynamics while focusing on her children and the bonds that can be preserved.
