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Relationships

Mumsnet has not checked the qualifications of anyone posting here. If you need help urgently or expert advice, please see our domestic violence webguide and/or relationships webguide. Many Mumsnetters experiencing domestic abuse have found this thread helpful: Listen up, everybody

Where do I start?

999 replies

skyyequake · 15/09/2016 16:34

I have no idea what I'm expecting to get from posting here, so I guess that I'll just tell the story and you can just shake me/comment whatever you think

When I met DP he was wonderful, we clicked straight away, had lots of laughs and he seemed really down to earth and wonderful. We quickly started spending most of out time together (I worked PT but with lots of overtime, he was unemployed) All my friends had gone off on their second year of uni around this time and so I wasn't spending time with anyone other than him. I was 20, he was 22.

Anyway, I guess I kind of got lost in that world without many outside influences and before I knew it (far too soon and before I really had time for my thoughts to catch up with me) we were engaged and I was pregnant. (I was happy about being pregnant and I wasn't forced into it)

The first time we had a disagreement was about me texting my friend (who was male) he said I was texting and felt like I was more engrossed in my phone than on our time together. I disagreed but compromised and agreed to text less. This quickly dwindled into not texting at all due to DPs sulking every time I sent a single text.

The next time I heard from my friend was when he sent out a mass Christmas text, I replied and we got talking. I mention I was pregnant and he congratulated me. It was at this point that DP went mental because I was smiling at my phone (because I was excited about pregnancy) and I apparently gave him a "look" which meant I must be flirting/cheating or something. I told him I could talk to whoever I liked and this just seemed to confirm to him that I was doing something dodgy. We had a massive argument. He told me I had no self-respect (I had been completely honest about my sexual history). This was the first time he pushed me to break down in tears.

Over my pregnancy, we had a ton of arguments where he would blow up and tell me I was lazy, stupid, naive, etc telling me that he was just trying to make me a "better person". I can't count the amount of times he left me in the bedroom balling my eyes out, cradling my bump and apologising for bringing her into such crap.

During my first trimester I had really bad morning sickness which left me feeling nauseous all of the time, I could barely sleep, and I was still working PT on a shop floor so on my feet all shift. It left me feeling depressed and exhausted. He would complain to me that we weren't having sex, because it made him feel like I didn't care about/love him anymore. One time we were in the middle of doing some sexual stuff and I suddenly had to dart out of the room to literally go and throw up in the toilet. When I got back he was sulking because "it didn't make him feel very wanted"

After DD was born, DP had to go away for a couple of days to paint up and move us into our new flat (we were in a shared house before). It was supposed to be a couple of days and I was in hospital for 3, when he still wasn't done I went to stay with my DGM. It took him (and family members) 3 weeks to complete it. When I would get frustrated that he would give me a "done by" date and then on that day say that they were nowhere near finished, he would yell down the phone at me that he was stressed and exhausted (I was looking after a newborn essentially on my own, whilst DGM did what she could she was nearly 80 at the time).

DGM overheard some of this, and when I told him that he was just stressed etc, she told me to never let him get up with the baby at night, as it only takes one time of anger for him to do something. He's never laid a hand on DD (now 14 months) but I always keep that in the back of my head.

Since we subsequently moved into our flat, DP has left basically everything up to me. He never did night feeds, rarely did nappies, hardly ever did any cleaning/housework. I was left with PND and when we argued he would corner me (although he denies this) and yell in my face whilst I was holding DD. Sometimes he would force me to give her to him, I would resist at first but then give in for fear he would try and snatch her off me and hurt her. Then he would continue screaming at me whilst he held her. He would continue to call me a lazy, naive little girl and would tell me that he had to break me down from what I was in order to build me back up again, and that at least now I had some self-respect.

In between all this he would be lovely. He would apologise for things he had said, citing anger problems as the reason. He said that he didn't mean anything he said during anger, even when I pointed out that that surely is what he's really thinking and he'd just done away with his filter. He denies this.

We broke up earlier this year for three months. It was always temporary, until he proved that he could step up and do his share of housework and childcare. After that amount of time he really seemed to have changed and so I (stupidly) let him back.

Almost immediately he began to fall backwards and has become more and more difficult to try and talk to about it. Telling me I'm nagging/moaning/"the only one who hasn't changed is you". This culminated last night when he accused me of not cleaning to "the same standard he can" and that when I was on my own with DD my "standard of hygiene was unlivable" (I spoke to my NDN today, who was around a lot during that time, she said there was nothing wrong with the cleanliness of my home)

He has also told me on occasion that I'm not really Bi, because you can only be gay and straight, and that it doesn't matter anyway because I'm with him so sexuality is irrelevant. He's also suggested that I'm more likely to cheat on him because I'm Bi.

I have no friends left, I don't know if my dad will understand how bad it is (he usually has excuses for him), and my DGM died in June. I'm NC with my mum, and I have no one left except my NDN who is lovely and probably the only reason I haven't gone insane.

I don't know if I can get him to leave again. The only reason he left before was because I got him to think it was his idea, he won't make that mistake again.

I keep telling him that I want the person I met back, but I don't think that person exists anymore, if they ever did.

Sorry for any typos and that this is so long.

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Littlelostdinosaur · 22/09/2016 03:07

Just caught up sky. What a productive day well done. Cab sound alike they gave you great advice, you've got a lot of options 😊
That no making a fuss thing was what a mean, it's easy to think this is a lot of effort and extremes over it all but obviously you know it's the right thing so acknowledge the feelings, then get the logic in and deal with them and let them go.

How do you feel about changing your number, then you won't maybe be on edge about waiting for contact. You could use your old number yo message saying something like "the last of your things is at the station. My solicitor (or whoever) will be I. Touch soon about supervised access and I will no longer be contactable on this number. Please do not come to the flat or I will call the police." Then at least it's clear and you e got a great case in any harassment proceedings- he has to KNOW that his behaviour would cause harassment. Sending that message gives the police that point to prove and it would be hard got him to say he didn't know it would upset/distress/harass you as you've made it clear not to contact you. You're also then seem to be doing as much as possible to enable yours and dds safety and assist the police.
I know it's not always possible but it's a good step if you can do it.

Well done. Another day done Flowersx

Littlelostdinosaur · 22/09/2016 03:08

Excuse the typing!

GiddyOnZackHunt · 22/09/2016 09:24

Did you sleep well?

skyyequake · 22/09/2016 11:41

Hi guys! I did sleep well thanks Giddy Flowers

I went down One-Stop Shop today and they are amazing!! I highly recommend their services to anyone who needs them.

They let me explain my situation to one of their advisors when I said I didn't really know who I wanted to speak to, but I did want to speak to a solicitor at some point. I explained, had a bit of a cry. She assured me that I was doing the right thing in coming down, even pointed out some of his behaviours I hadn't noticed! Told me that he actually has been physically abusive as he's been in my face, cornering me, etc, and that means he's using his physical presence to intimidate and scare me.

Then went and spoke to the solicitor. She told me that I needed to provide evidence of DV if I wanted legal aid, but if that wasn't an option then I could apply myself no problem, and I wouldn't have to pay a court fee once I provide evidence that I'm getting Income Support. So I'll have to apply and get that first. She gave me all the info I need to find the right forms and said I can come back any time if I want someone to go over them and check I've filled it out right.

I then went and spoke to another advisor, who told me that if I go to my GP now and get a letter from them then that will count as the evidence I need to get legal aid, although I'm still welcome to do it myself. She also told me about Freedom Project/Programme I can't remember exactly what it's called. It happens to start tomorrow and is within walking distance, and they have a creche! So I'm going to go to that tomorrow.

I've also made myself a GP appointment for in 2 weeks (it's only that far away because there's one doctor that I trust at my surgery but she's not my doctor so they've had to fit me around her actual patients), which should give me enough time to get Income Support sorted anyway.

My aunt (dad's sister) is coming to see me on Saturday with my 11yo cousin so it'll be nice to have someone IRL to talk to Smile

I'm going to call up about getting the locks changed now!

You're all still amazing I couldn't have done it without you all! Even those who are now just reading, it means so much to have messages of support from new people too... You keep me strong Flowers

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GiddyOnZackHunt · 22/09/2016 11:53

You are a dynamo Smile
Freedom Programme is highly recommended on MN to get yourself mentally sorted to move forward and on to a better life. Definitely take the chance. I swear your nan has got this covered. Grin
I think your dad sounds a bit like my DH (apart from the young girlfriends) so DH doesn't really do emotional support spontaneously. However if I sit him down and say 'Listen to me talk. Don't attempt to fix it. I need to offload and then maybe ask you to do some stuff to help' then he's fine.

skyyequake · 22/09/2016 12:07

ok so I have an issue. I called the council and the annoyingly cheery woman on the other end just said "Yup you can go ahead and do that!" when I asked about changing the locks. Apparently it's all my responsibility (and yes I mentioned about abusive XP).

So how much would it cost to get this lock changed? I only have £43 in my account until Monday when I get another £80...

Where do I start?
Where do I start?
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theansweris42 · 22/09/2016 12:14

She also told me about Freedom Project/Programme I can't remember exactly what it's called. It happens to start tomorrow and is within walking distance, and they have a creche! So I'm going to go to that tomorrow.

This has made my day!!!

Duckafuck · 22/09/2016 12:14

Hi Sky, have rtft and wanted to say you're amazing well done! Also have you spoken to women's aid about having your locks changed? A friend of mine had hers done for free by women's aid but we are in SE London so not sure if different areas makes a difference?

GiddyOnZackHunt · 22/09/2016 12:19

Hmm. If you're lucky then it'll be a euro lock which is cheap to buy and easy to do yourself. Is your key just a normal style key?
You can find tutorials on YouTube but it's basically unscrew the handle and dismantle. Take pics as you do it so you can see how it goes back together again. Replace lock and reassemble.
Ordinarily I'd say leave someone in and take the lock with you but obviously not an option.
Post in property/DIY and maybe PigletJohn can advise better.

Lynnm63 · 22/09/2016 12:23

Barrel locks are approx £6 on screwfix website not sure if I'm allowed to say that. Sorry MNHQ if I'm not. They are easy to change and I'm sure I could pm you instructions. My dh changed ours a while back, can't remember why.

skyyequake · 22/09/2016 12:30

It was installed by the council so I assume it's a pretty bog standard one! Not known for splashing out are this council Grin

Might ask my dad about it, he's good at this kind of thing!

theanswer i'm glad! I had no idea about it before she told me, though when she said the name I did have a vague recollection of it being mentioned on another MN post Grin It's just such a coincidence that the first one starts tomorrow! The universe really wants me to get rid of this guy Grin

Duckafuck Welcome! Thank you! And I have no idea if Women's Aid do that around here... I'd like to see if I can sort it myself first though as they have limited resources and a lot of women to help.

I was shocked at how many women were at One-Stop today, I mean it wasn't huge numbers, but enough considering that these would only be the women who a) knew about the place b) realised they were in an abusive relationship and c) felt strong enough to come down. It makes you wonder just how many women are in this situation under your very nose! Pisses me right off that this is such a common thing Angry Angry Angry

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skyyequake · 22/09/2016 14:30

Aaaand I'm on a low again. I swear when they say it's a rollercoaster of emotions they're not fucking kidding around!

I feel exhausted and overwhelmed. I don't know how to describe what else I'm feeling, it's like a cocktail of everything - sadness, anger, resentment, pity. But it all sorts of swirls together so I don't feel like I'm feeling much of anything. Except tiredness.

I feel so lonely.

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Hidingtonothing · 22/09/2016 14:51

There are bound to be lows sweetheart, you'll probably find this is a bit of an adrenaline crash, really wish I could give you a hug Sad You've achieved so much so quickly and that will have kept you on a high but your body can only keep that high going for so long and then it's inevitable there will be a low. It won't last if that helps at all, things will level out and you will feel normal again it just takes a little bit of time. I hate that you feel lonely, I wish you had as much support in RL as you do here, I'm sure most of us would rather be popping round and supplying tea and hugs and practical help than typing messages on a screen. I know it doesn't help you feel better instantly but the way you feel now will pass, can you snuggle up with DD and stick a dvd on or something for now, give yourself a bit of a break?

holrosea · 22/09/2016 15:03

Agree absolutely with Hiding, you have done so much in so little time and it takes a lot of mental and emotional strength to stick to your guns and keep a damn good hold on the "I am doing the right thing" feeling.

You are absolutely doing the right thing, you are taking every step you should and you should cut yourself some slack for the emotional slumps because you are only human. Be kind to yourself. Look at how far you have come emotionally in just a few days, and give yourself a big pat on the back for setting yourself and your daughter free. Brew Chocolate

skyyequake · 22/09/2016 15:05

Thank you. I just feel like all my life has been a car crash, and each time I think I've found a way to be happy the rug gets pulled from under my feet and it all goes to shit again.

I would love to have you all round for Brew! You'd probably all have to bring a bean bag with you though as it's only a little flat Grin

I know by this evening I'll be feeling better again. That seems to be the pattern at the moment: rush around sorting things in the morning, crashing in the afternoon, recovering in the evenings, going to bed, rinse and repeat.

I wish I had IRL support to... Hopefully this Freedom Programme tomorrow will help with that!

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skyyequake · 22/09/2016 15:08

ooh holrosea I might go down the shop and get me some Chocolate in a minute before XP finishes work I'm glad that at least I'm located quite centrally to everything, so at least he didn't manage to physically isolate me too... That would be unbearable!

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skyyequake · 22/09/2016 15:16

I found a chocolate bar in the fridge! Past me obviously knew I'd need it Grin

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Lynnm63 · 22/09/2016 15:25

I wish I was close by I'd be round in a heartbeat to drink tea and eat cake. I'm not surprised you feel overwhelmed you've achieved so much in such a short time. It was only a week ago you started this thread. It ok to cry, swear, eat your body weight in chocolate. In fact it's probably normal. I'm lucky to have never been in your shoes but Im a LOT older than you and I'm not sure I'd have coped any better than you.
It's going to be hard and whilst we can't physically hug you we are virtually hugging you and your dd.
Chin up you are doing great.

skyyequake · 22/09/2016 15:33

Thank you Lynn

DD is keeping my spirits up. She's such a cheerful baby! She had everyone at One-Stop smiling and laughing as she toddled around with a big grin on her face exploring everything!

She wouldn't have been here if I hadn't have made all the mistakes in my life. I feel like the universe wanted her here, and now she is I can get out of this crap and make a good life for us, and the universe is helping!

I keep telling myself that I want the best upbringing for her as possible, and XP was holding us back from that. He can't seem to escape his own circumstances and imagine a life beyond them. I'm going to make sure DD has a better life than either of us did.

Would you believe that XP has had the audacity, on multiple occasions, to call me an immature, naive, little girl?? I'm sure as hell gonna prove him wrong!

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Hidingtonothing · 22/09/2016 15:48

You already have! I suspect calling you immature and naive were just more ways to put you down, make you doubt yourself and stop you questioning that 'he knew best'. You've shown huge emotional maturity and intelligence in seeing him for what he really is and realising you and DD deserve better, I'm so glad his tactics to keep you down didn't work. DD sounds wonderful, mine is almost 8 now and still a proper ray of sunshine, our babies are totally worth everything we have to go through to make their lives better. Please go easy on yourself Sky, things will stabilise and start to feel 'normal' (a new kind of normal but it's amazing how quickly you get used to it) again and it's still really early days. Glad you found Chocolate, it always helps Smile

skyyequake · 22/09/2016 16:21

It's a bit crazy to me that he doesn't know about any of this! He probably thinks that I'm sitting at home on my own with no idea what to do! He'll flip his shit if/when he finds out I've talked to the police/domestic abuse people

I know I have to go easy on myself, but XP (and DM and SF) have always imposed on me that I'm not doing enough. Even when I'm at breaking point, I can always see what I've not done more clearly than what I have done, because I've had a lifetime of people pointing it out!

They really are worth it aren't they! My bond with DD is really important to me as I had PND and struggled with not having that classic mother-baby moment at birth (traumatic birth, which XP was not supportive of at all, SO glad I stayed with DGM for those first 3 weeks). Now our bond is really strong, which XP is insanely jealous of! He's even tried to shame DD on wanting me instead of him, when she was a year old! (Think along the lines of "Oh go to your mum then" "You're such a kiss ass" etc)

I've always been extremely cold with him after those times. Completely unacceptable, but of course he only thinks of himself!

Chocolate does always help! Chocolate all round to you lovely ladies Grin

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Hidingtonothing · 22/09/2016 16:36

XP (and DM and SF) have always imposed on me that I'm not doing enough

It will take time but I can't wait for the day when it becomes clear to you that you only have yourself and DD to please, that what you're doing is enough and that no one else's opinion actually matters. You're a strong, resilient, wonderful woman Sky, I wish you could see what we see. But you will, keep going and you will Flowers

skyyequake · 22/09/2016 16:50

Thank you Hiding I really hope so! I'll probably end up in counselling before that happens - hell I might be referred by my GP in a couple of weeks! I've considered counselling before, but never followed through... Hopefully this will be the new start I need and I will get myself sorted out!

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GabsAlot · 22/09/2016 17:23

glad you got some good advice and help today skye

youre going to be up and down for a while but its completely normal

i dont know about locks maybe get a quote

did th epolice ring u back at all?

skyyequake · 22/09/2016 17:27

I just got a text from him, I will write it out word for word (except DDs name)

Hay hope your okay miss u and hows dd

Help!

Gabs Thank you! No I didn't hear from police today Confused

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