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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

How do I end it? Feel like a rabbit in headlights and don't know where to start. Long.

6 replies

ScandiCinnamon · 20/11/2017 11:49

Background. Have been with DP for just over 11 years. Not married. I wanted to. He said it would happen but then there was always a reason not to.

Two DD's in primary school. Things have not been great. No other people involved, but he pulled away completely whilst I suffered postnatal depression. Twice. He has always been very selfish and puts himself and his interest first. However, to his credit he is a very loving dad and adores the DD's and does lots for them. Now.

We had a massive crisis nearly three years ago when he slept on the sofa for 8 months as he 'needed space' he was not sure of the relationship etc. However, this was all down to me apparently. In the end it turned out he was actually very depressed.

We have been to counseling twice and things get better for a while, but I have now come to the conclusion that I cannot be in the relationship anymore. For my own sake. There is zero love and affection from his side for me. I get the distinct impression I annoy him more than anything. E.g. If I (hypothetically) were to fall over his instinctive reaction would be annoyance rather than concern.

I keep asking myself 'do I want to live like this for the rest of my life' and the answer is a big no. Also, I am concerned over the example I am setting to the DD's. I would never want them to be in this type of relationship. I am there because of what I have invested rather than how it is now.

So, wtf to do now?! I am in a financially dependent situation, as I work PT on a very low salary. I have no family in England. No secret nest eggs to fall back upon, but we completely co-own the property we live in, which he actually to his great credit he gave me co-ownership of when I fell pregnant. However, as I am the one wanting to end it I guess I am the one that should leave?!

I feel frozen and don't know where to start with getting out and am feeling very very sad and scared.

OP posts:
hellsbellsmelons · 20/11/2017 12:09

Get some legal advice first.
See if there are any solicitors in your area that give a free half hour first appointment.
Also get onto CAB and see where you would stand if you were to leave.
Housing, benefits, tax credits, etc.....
You would also maintenance from him for the DC.

ScandiCinnamon · 20/11/2017 12:23

Thanks hellsbellsmelons

I will definitely get on to CAB. I suspect my DP will want 50/50 share of care of the DD's so I think that means he does not need to pay maintenance.....

OP posts:
Pinkgeek · 20/11/2017 12:26

Bless you. I don't have a lot of advice as I'm about to go through a divorce myself in similar financial circumstances to yours.

I just wanted to say that you are not alone. Get all the advice you can and I'm sure lots of lovely people on here will be able to offer good tips.

You are being very brave and a great mum Flowers

ScandiCinnamon · 20/11/2017 12:54

Thanks Pinkgeek. Flowers and best of luck to you.

I know things will get better, but rights now I feel totally and utterly glum and lonely. In the long run this is best for the DD's too, but I feel dreadful right now.

OP posts:
Pinkgeek · 20/11/2017 13:49

Me too scandi, we can do this though. Keep reaching out for help on here. These lovely folk are keeping my head above the water. My thread is 'my in laws have threatened me' if you want to look through the advice I've received.
Be kind to yourself Flowers

ScandiCinnamon · 22/11/2017 11:33

Pinkgeek, I started to read your thread, but have not finished yet. I feel for you & what you are going through Flowers Here's to a happy 2018!

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