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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

Why does it hurt so much and how to get over it

4 replies

supercatlady · 26/06/2025 21:39

Potted history:
Together 35 years, married 30. 10 yrs ago he had a breakdown and said he didn’t love me and didn’t know if he ever did. 2 yrs later confessed (in a letter he gave me to read) to 4 historic affairs. A one night stand while working away, 6 or so weeks with a senior colleague, 6 or so months with the office admin, a year or so with a mutual friend. I stayed - stupid I know - I was scared of being alone and hurting our adult (but still at home) kids.
A year or so after that I found he’d signed up to gay hook up sites. He said only to talk as he was confused. I knew he was lying but I stayed. He saw a counsellor and came out as bisexual but said he hadn’t and didn’t want to sleep with a man.
More red flags - female friend saved to his phone under male name, refused to call me from room when away on business.
6 years ago said he did love me. We renewed our vows.
2 years ago said he wasn’t sure what he wanted. We had couples counselling. A year ago he told me it would only work if I trust him and he’s free to holiday alone and to not need to tell me where he is when he goes out. Finally I said that doesn’t work for me and 6 mths ago he moved out. Divorce is going through.
DD has stayed with him this week and said he was having late night calls from a woman which she could overhear. Said she knocked on his door during the call and he told her not to come in as he’s naked. Later he told her it’s just a friend who phoned for some advice.
I felt physically sick at the thought of him with someone else but why? I know I’m better off without him and I deserve better. What can I do to come to terms with this?

OP posts:
Unconvinced8768 · 26/06/2025 21:41

Oh my god, you poor darling. So much trauma for basically most of your adult life. You’re doing so well to be still standing. I strongly recommend therapy. Sending care x

Ricoletti · 26/06/2025 21:52

@supercatlady. I’m sorry that this man has treated you so terribly. You have forgiven him for some appalling behaviour!

rejection and loss hurt so much, and you need time to heal and rebuild yourself after so much trauma in your marriage.

you know you are better off without this man who has treated you so poorly. But please be gentle with yourself. You were with him for such a long time and healing takes time.

I second the previous posters advise about accessing some therapy. You need a safe space with a skilled professional to help you to unpick and process all that has happened.

You have given him many years but you have many many for happier years ahead of you. You will get through this and will be all the happier in your new life without him. But you need time and support to get there. Lean on friends. Talk to trusted people. Let loved ones hold you and prop you up when you need it. It’s ok to be sad.

sending you love from afar ♥️

supercatlady · 26/06/2025 22:17

Thank you for your kind words. I half expected to be slated for being such a stupid doormat.
He said he hated himself for what he did to me and wanted to be a better person but I’m sure he’s still lying.
I am having EMDR for complex trauma but it’s exhausting doing that while working full time. We have a buyer for our house but I’ll need to take a mortgage to get somewhere that doesn’t need lots of work.

OP posts:
Ricoletti · 26/06/2025 22:40

You are not a stupid doormat!

he’s a rubbish husband.

I wish you all the very best.

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