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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

He left, Finally.

212 replies

Muddlethroughmam · 02/01/2026 06:21

That's it really, He left.

After a few years of constantly threatening to leave me, Me playing into it begging him to stay. Apologizing for anything and everything to convince him to stay. Putting up with so much of what I now know is emotional abuse (I was put in touch with Women's Aid) I constantly questioned if I was a horrible person that deserved everything. I said to him the next time you verbally abuse me will be the last time, And it was. The problem here is that in turn I became verbally abusive, I said horrible unforgivable things, Because I didn't want him to forgive me, I wanted him to leave.

We would have a disagreement, I would get the silent treatment for up to a few weeks - He would then finally talk to me and make me guess what I had done wrong, And I would, I would wrack my brain and try and think of things that might have upset him and he would agree with every one and then say nope keep guessing, It used to go on for hours.

He would take my mode of transportation away from me at the drop of a hat (Rural)

Refuse to contribute financially because I didn't deserve it.

Shine lights in my face to prevent me from sleeping.

Shout at me and intimidate me but then say it's not like I'm hitting you

He would sent me pages and pages of messages listing my faults and how I was responsible for the relationship failing.

He would tell me constantly that I needed to go to the doctors because I was mentally unwell and needed help because it was impacting our relationship.

He became sexually abusive recently (Not R. But very unwanted touching etc and then anger when I asked him not to) and I think that was the final straw for me, I'm not sure why this pushed me over the edge but I think I can pinpoint it to that.

I haven't stopped shaking since yesterday afternoon, Feel sick and worried, He took our car which leaves me a bit screwed. But apart from that which I think I have sorted I definitely feel lighter and relieved.

I don't know what the point in this post is really, But it's over and he's gone. I don't know how to move on, I don't know how to forgive myself for the things I have said. Awful horrible vitoral. I became him in that moment yesterday and I scared myself. I can't ever go back.

The house is mine and he doesn't have and can't copy keys, All of the bills etc are in my name so we are now completely separate.

OP posts:
Sunflowers67 · 21/01/2026 22:46

Well done!

I am so glad that you are finding your peace - it really is the little things that hit home the most. These partners are such a drain on every ounce of your being that your mind and body almost seem to sigh with relief - this is the most relaxed that I have felt in years and the health improvements have been miraculous.

Of course there are sad moments and 'what if' moments - that's only natural and part of the healing process.

You've been incredibly brave, strong and resilient in the face of adversity.
Good for you.

justasking111 · 21/01/2026 23:07

I'm so glad for you. This thread and your future you can pay forward to another woman on here one day. God bless you little family.

AcrossthePond55 · 21/01/2026 23:32

Muddlethroughmam · 21/01/2026 21:51

But, Life is good, I can't remember the last time I felt truly happy and free. We laugh, we sing, we dance.
I can read and laze around if I want, there's no shouting, no silent treatment. I get up when I want, go to bed when I want, eat what I want when I want.
Have days where I'm a bit teary and I think God what have I done, knowing that I can't stop the process now. But I feel it's important to see it through in the hope that he is convicted of something that will show up on a Claire's law.

That is so wonderful! The freedom to choose is amazing, when you haven't had it!

Tears are natural. They'll fade after time. Just concentrate on the happy days and how 'light' you feel without his presence weighing you down.

Muddlethroughmam · 28/01/2026 15:10

I can't believe it's been 26 days since I started this thread.

Things are moving quite slowly with the police investigation, Have days where I completely panic and days where I feel so free and liberated I can't contain my joy.

I keep coming back and reading everyones comments to keep me going, the thread was the first time I think I've ever got any of that stuff out of my head and it's been very cathartic. Maybe I'll buy a journal going forwards instead of boring you all!

OP posts:
AcrossthePond55 · 28/01/2026 15:35

@Muddlethroughmam

That emotional roller coaster is absolutely natural. I'm experiencing the same thing, although the reason I separated from DH is very different than yours. It's a commonality in those of us who leave bad relationships, no matter what the reason.

You aren't 'boring' anyone. We're here to be a sounding board and a soft place to land as long as you need it. But if you feel we've 'served our purpose' or you need more privacy, those are valid reasons not to update.

Muddlethroughmam · 28/01/2026 15:38

AcrossthePond55 · 28/01/2026 15:35

@Muddlethroughmam

That emotional roller coaster is absolutely natural. I'm experiencing the same thing, although the reason I separated from DH is very different than yours. It's a commonality in those of us who leave bad relationships, no matter what the reason.

You aren't 'boring' anyone. We're here to be a sounding board and a soft place to land as long as you need it. But if you feel we've 'served our purpose' or you need more privacy, those are valid reasons not to update.

I'm sorry for your current situation, and I hope you are safe and beginning to discover freedom.

It's funny really because I'm a very private person, I have a few close friends, not much family. But this has just helped me so much, All of you being here, words of wisdom, kindness and just a quiet handhold and genuine support. Amazing really isn't it this little corner of the Internet.

OP posts:
AcrossthePond55 · 28/01/2026 16:05

I'm safe and have settled pretty well into freedom. And calm. For me it's the calm and the quiet in my little flat. I am lucky that I have the financial position to be able to support myself without much change in my (not lavish) lifestyle. The final financial order will take months, but I should still be fine when it's all over. And I have supportive family and some good friends. My journey isn't over yet, but I'm not walking it alone. Neither are you.

I think this little corner of the internet is not only amazing, it is powerful. If you think about the number of women from all corners of the world (yes, and some men) who have been given the courage to change their lives and the wisdom to know how it's pretty stunning.

ERthree · 28/01/2026 17:38

So glad you are safe and both you and your son are laughing again. Every time you have a wobble remember that man stole your joy and that of your son, so turn the music up and dance dance, dance. You are not boring us at all, we are rooting for you and sending you hugs x

SliceofTosst · 28/01/2026 18:10

Good for you! Those days where you panic at what you've done will decrease and those of freedom will grow. You're just adapting to the new and genuine you!!

Muddlethroughmam · 28/01/2026 18:34

SliceofTosst · 28/01/2026 18:10

Good for you! Those days where you panic at what you've done will decrease and those of freedom will grow. You're just adapting to the new and genuine you!!

It's funny the way in which you realize that every element of your life and every decision no matter how small they controlled.
I was with a friend yesterday and I saw a mug that I liked and she said to me why don't you get it? Instant panic, no he wouldn't like that, everything has to be matching and in order.
I could have cried over a fucking mug 😂 I bought it anyway and when I came downstairs this morning I hid it so he didn't see it!

OP posts:
Dietday · 28/01/2026 19:47

You are making amazing progress.
It is do wonderful to read happy posts from women who broke free.
Keep posting if you enjoy it.

Beaverbridge · 28/01/2026 20:06

Shouting you on from the rooftops lovely. May you enjoy your freedom, peace and enjoy life going forwards. 💐

moderate · 29/01/2026 16:18

I'm late to this thread but really pleased to hear you've got this man out of your life. Congratulations!

Newlife12 · 29/01/2026 17:43

OP well done in leaving this abusive piece of shit. I am four months on from you when I finally had the strength to finally end it after so many attempts. I totally get the bit about being pushed so far that you finally snap and say terrible things and the silent treatment Mine would start filming me when I got angry. Mine was also physical abuse. But he was the victim.
One thing I notice is I actually now sleep the whole night through, I never could when he was there.
You seem to be making great progress wishing you a fab new life.

Muddlethroughmam · 24/03/2026 21:48

A 3 ish month update that no one asked for! And I feel probably my last post.

But for anyone in my position that may be trawling through mumsnet trying to confirm what's happening to you, As I did for many many months - Please leave. There's a better life out there for you.

I had no idea how much control this 'man' had over my life. He's been arrested and charged so we will see what the future brings in that respect.

I am happy, I have really bad days but overall I am happy and I am free.

I sing, I dance, my son and I have adventures together, I sleep properly for the first time in years, I've lost weight and I feel like the happiest and healthiest version of myself, A me I thought I had lost forever.

Thank you so much to everyone in this thread for the support, advice and solidarity. I have revisited it many times since I created the thread.

OP posts:
BetterDays2223 · 24/03/2026 21:56

What a wonderful update.

I am so happy for you and resonate fully.

Keep on making the most healthy and fruitful life- everything you desire is already yours 💗

SecretSquid · 24/03/2026 21:58

What an update! I haven't posted on your thread before but I couldn't let that go without wishing you well. Enjoy your new life OP x

PoppySaidYesIKnow · 24/03/2026 22:16

You are a strong and independent woman. Well done for making a new life free of him. The world is your oyster now.

justasking111 · 24/03/2026 22:50

I'm so glad for you @Muddlethroughmam . Have the best life now.

aWeeCornishPastie · 24/03/2026 22:50

♥️

therockingbird · 24/03/2026 23:05

What a beautiful update, be proud! You stood up to an awful person who made your life hell. I’ve been there and know it takes strength. Enjoy the rest of your life, healthy and happy, free from that A-Hole! xx

Damnedidont · 24/03/2026 23:26

Thank you for the update. Lovely to hear from you and well done for regaining control over your life. Wishing you all the very best

AcrossthePond55 · 24/03/2026 23:30

God bless you @Muddlethroughmam and long may you reign!!!

Starbri8 · 24/03/2026 23:36

I just want to say I think you are amazing ❤️ I wish you and your son every happiness . You should be so proud of yourself .

marriednotdead · 24/03/2026 23:58

Delighted to see your update @Muddlethroughmam, wishing you all the peace and happiness you and your DS deserve.
I am over 10 years out of a nightmare relationship and still remember the wonderful feeling of being free from the constant fear and stress. Onwards and upwards!

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