How do I help my friend

[Ropsleybunny]

I believe her relationship is abusive but she says she loves him. She's now had a breakdown and it's clearly all to do with how he treats her. The GP has doubled her anti-depressants but I don't think tablets can treat an abusive relationship.

She doesn't work and is completely dependent upon him for everything. He's moved her 300 miles away from her friends and family.

He has said he will pay for her to be seen privately for her mental health problems. It's all such a mess, how do I help her?

[Ragusa]

Just keep talking to her :( and offer her à nights refuge if that would help. And also point her gently ro women's aid? It's so hard, I have a family member in a relationship like this and she is still with the dropkick. It can take years for someone to get out, unfortunately.

[Ropsleybunny]

Thanks Ragusa I wondered about Women's Aid but I tend to think she would be horrified. I don't think she realises what her relationship is really about.

[Ragusa]

That is really hard, I have a relative like this who just cannot see the wood for the trees. Inevitably the man in these situations has beaten the woman down so hard she has no faith in her own judgement and completely ignores legitimate feelings. It's so horrible to watch.

[Ropsleybunny]

That's exactly how it is. I feel so sad for her.

[Ropsleybunny]

Anyone?

[userxx]

There is nothing you can do except be there for her, try not to be negative about her boyfriend as she will stop telling you things and be even more isolated. Just keep the contact between you two going. It's heartbreaking and equally frustrating to be standing on the sidelines knowing there is nothing you can do.

[Ropsleybunny]

Thanks 😔