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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

Separating after 29 yr marriage: could someone chat?

84 replies

Smellisande · 11/07/2025 20:37

Just that. Feel completely lost and alone.
Everything that I built is ashes.

OP posts:
Smellisande · 12/07/2025 17:29

I reminded him today that there were many instances when I tried to get the affection and sex back on track, only to be rebuffed. And he agreed I did, but " apparently I didn't do it at the right time or in the right way". 🙄

I feel like I am being gaslighted to take all the blame. And I dont deserve it.

OP posts:
Crikeyalmighty · 12/07/2025 17:46

@Smellisande no you don’t deserve it - as happens when people want out they simply rewrite history especially when there are no 100% triggers like a known about affair or massive gambling etc - simply because no one wants to feel like they are a shit . It’s really not you OP -

MemorableTrenchcoat · 12/07/2025 17:46

Smellisande · 12/07/2025 17:29

I reminded him today that there were many instances when I tried to get the affection and sex back on track, only to be rebuffed. And he agreed I did, but " apparently I didn't do it at the right time or in the right way". 🙄

I feel like I am being gaslighted to take all the blame. And I dont deserve it.

That’s not gaslighting.

Smellisande · 12/07/2025 17:49

What is it then?

OP posts:
MemorableTrenchcoat · 12/07/2025 17:51

Smellisande · 12/07/2025 17:49

What is it then?

Telling lies, revisionism. Gaslighting is a different, and more severe form of psychological abuse.

Smellisande · 12/07/2025 17:52

I dont think he is lying exactly. Revisionism then.

OP posts:
PapaPerspective · 12/07/2025 18:37

Hi, I feel so sorry for you. Twenty-nine years is a long time to be with someone and it’s no wonder your head’s all over the place. It’s a proper big thing to get your head round, and honestly, anyone would be struggling. Don’t let anyone make you feel like you should just crack on and get over it....you’re allowed to feel sad, lost, or even angry. It’s a lot to process, so go easy on yourself.

I know us blokes aren’t always the best at talking about this stuff, but it does help to get it off your chest, even if it’s just having a natter with a mate over a brew or a bevvy. You don’t have to pour your heart out if that’s not your style, but just being around people who care about you can make a world of difference. If you’ve got family or mates you trust, lean on them a bit. They’ll want to be there for you, and from what I've read of your posts, you’d do the same for them.

Try not to look at the whole thing as a failure. You’ve had nearly three decades together – that’s something, that is. People change, life takes us in different directions, and sometimes things just don’t work out how we thought they would. Doesn’t mean you’ve wasted your time or done anything wrong. Give yourself a bit of credit for all the years you put in and the good times you had.

Now’s the time to look after yourself, even if it feels a bit strange. Do the little things you enjoy. For me I Iike to get outside. You could stick your favourite music on, watch a bit of telly, whatever makes you feel a bit more like yourself. It’s not selfish, it’s just looking after your own head. You’ll find your feet again, even if it takes a while. No rush, just take each day as it comes.

Honestly, it might not feel like it now, but things will get better. You’ll settle into a new routine and, bit by bit, you’ll start to feel more like yourself again. If you ever feel like it’s all getting too much, don’t be daft – reach out for a bit of help. There’s no shame in it. You’ve got through a lot already, and you’ll get through this too.

Smellisande · 12/07/2025 18:58

Thank you @PapaPerspective. I spent the day in my room, stunned. I called Samaritans once and dumped on them. DH spent the day in his room.
It's so awful. We crossed in the kitchen, and his whole body language was so angry that I didn't say a word.

OP posts:
Crikeyalmighty · 12/07/2025 22:04

@PapaPerspective is correct.

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