I have just turned 40. That “magic number” birthday like 40 has reminded me of how much my life actually sucks.

The only bright part of my life is my almost six-year-old daughter, who lives with me half the time. 

I have a job and that is OK but Im finding that my life only consists of sleeping, working and caring for my daughter.

I am not complaining about having my daughter but a part of me knows if my kid remains my “only reason to live,” that’s ultimately going to be destructive for her and ultimately me.

I basically don't have a life and at times I find myself severely depressed. It’s starting to feel as though I’m not ever going to get unstuck.

One day I'm afraid I will look back, realise I am old and have missed it all. What really aches badly is the loneliness of it all. 

When I first read your letter I thought you might just be struggling with turning the big four-O! But I now see that you are really at a crossroad in your life. 

I understand what you are saying regarding your daughter and your past behaviour of perhaps using her as a crutch in your life.  

It's time to get a life and that doesn't necessarily mean dating, you must have work friends or perhaps a  sporting activity?

Get out and socialise on the 50 per cent that you don't have your daughter. When you do have her, go out with her – she must have school friends - get to know her friends’ parents and take it from there.

Once you start putting your plan into action you should feel much better and less depressed - if you continue with depression I do recommend reaching out to any one of the number of services available.

You can do this. You are a good Dad, and you know what needs to be done, so just do it.

You gotta get out there and have a go mate!