I just wanted to thank all the brave posters here who sought advice about their abusive relationships over the years and to those who replied to them. You outlined what abuse looked like and what steps you took, so that when it happened to me, slowly and insidiously, I could recognise what it was. The love bombing, the gaslighting, the veiled threats, the coercive control.
You showed me what to do (document incidents, collect evidence, tell people, contact helplines, seek legal advice, pack a bag, store important documents) so that the moment it suddenly became very unsafe, me and DC could leave quickly and safely.
I knew nothing about abuse before reading the posts on here. I had a sheltered naive veiw of life before I married my ex. The term 'get your ducks in a row' meant nothing to me. I would have stayed in that abusive relationship for years blaming myself.
But I didn't because of you. Its early days and its going to be tricky, I know. I'm very scared for my dc. But at least we are not trapped. No doubt I will post again asking for help navigating the road ahead but for now with all my heart, thank you - I LTB!