It is (removed by moderator) since I left my abusive partner. I left with the clothes I wore, and I’d got a few important documents out of the home ahead of me by post. I spoke to Women’s Aid twice in two weeks, and the second time they offered to help me leave, if that was what I wanted to do.
I see some people here who still have not found the courage to seek help locally to them.
I really understand this as I was terrified of someone seeing me go there, and my partner finding out. However, only by speaking to trained practitioners was I able to learned myself what was happening, enough to make the decision to leave. A series of questions led me to tell them everything that was going on. It was the first time I had heard my own story, and I was shocked. Being isolated and tense because of his behaviour, I was much too afraid of burdening anyone I knew. Plus I was embarrassed to relate his behaviour – I still had a strong sense of US, and shame at his behaviour in OUR marriage.
Sometimes the only way to get perspective on what is happening is to speak to trained people who offer confidentiality and can listen objectively, and help you understand and reflect.
I did the right thing. So relieved now I did.
