Frightened Partner

Dear Lynda:
My partner and I have been having a lot of problems lately. He's decided that he needs to move out. I'm now 27 weeks pregnant and already have two children. He tells me he needs space to sort his head out. He's trying to figure out issues with his family. They've disowned him and he's having a hard time dealing with that. We've been together for three years and before I met him he was recovering from a nervous breakdown brought on by the end of his marriage three years earlier. Can you see us working this out? Is everything OK with my baby?
Linda, London, England

Dear Linda:
Everything is fine with your baby. I see nothing to be concerned about in that area. Your partner, on the other hand, isn't fine. He's very troubled and probably never tried to give you the idea that he was a stable, healthy participant in your relationship. But, despite his fears and emotional weakness, he does have the ability to make new choices. He's approaching a possible turning point, where he can choose to be the man he desires to be rather than continue to follow the limitations his family has inflicted upon him. The good news is that I see help around you. Other people (male, actually) who will step in and be there for you even if your partner can't be. I think you should enjoy the pregnancy and birth experience as much as you can without having any expectations about your partner. Let yourself be excited and happy regardless of his choices. Focus on your children and your own personal growth. I'm sending you lots of joyful energy.
Lynda