I’m scared to move in with my girlfriend

DEAR DEIDRE: Even though I’ve fallen in love with a woman I’ve known for years, I’m scared to move in with her.

I had a flat in town two years ago, but had a terrible time with neighbours who were drug dealers, and I ended up being held hostage in my home.

I spent two nights in hospital nursing injuries.

The council gave me a new apartment in a better area.

I’m a guy of 33 and I’ve always had feelings for somebody I used to work with. While I was recovering, I got in touch and told her how I felt.

She told me that she felt the same so, since then, we’ve been dating and it’s been great.

She’s 39 and wants me to move in with her, but I’m worried that if I give up my new flat and things don’t work out, I’ll be homeless.

DEIDRE SAYS: I’m sorry you’ve been through such a terrible time. Understandably, you are wary of moving house again.

Rather than making a point-of-no-return decision, have extended periods staying with your girlfriend, building up to a week or so if you can.

Really think about how it would be to live with her and how your work and life would pan out if you made the move.

If you need help with any post-traumatic stress you may feel, do contact Assist Trauma Care (assisttraumacare.org.uk, 01788 551919).

MORE FROM DEAR DEIDRE

DEAR DEIDRE

I had a one night-stand then found out my boyfriend cheated with the same man

DEIDRE'S STORIES

Ethan cannot believe Brooke is now pregnant