how to flee, get out, or escape an abusive relationship

Leaving an abusive relationship involves several stages of separation because leaving an emotionally or physically abusive relationship requires that the victim let everything go. It is not easy to let go when a person is in a unhealthy or abusive relationship. According to the University of Illinois abused individuals go through a process of leaving. It first starts by disconnecting emotionally from the relationship, next the victim makes preparations to leave by finding a place to stay or by saving up money. Once action is taken the victim can have feelings of wanting to continue the emotional connection. Confusion causes need for clarity when there is continued contact that could lead to further abuse.

Once out of the relationship other factors may cause the victim to be pulled back into the complex situation so deciding to change is not always enough when trying to end a abusive relationship. Simply because the process involves a journey of self-discovery. The victim of abuse will need to rediscover themselves in a whole new way from being co-dependent to independence.

It may be necessary to seek legal separation which is a legal process by which a couple formalizes a separation while remaining legally married. As you may be aware a legal separation is granted in the form of a court order it is important to note that a legal separation does not automatically lead to divorce. So the couple might reconcile, in which case they do not have to do anything in order to continue their marriage. In the case the two do not reconcile, and they wish to proceed with a divorce, they must go through a process for divorce.

Many experience a broad range of emotions such as betrayal, grief, anger, freedom, joy, strength as well as conflicting and overwhelming feeling of confusion. It may be necessary to consult a therapist to cope with these feelings. Since letting go of an abusive relationship can lead to grief, it is natural to mourn the loss of the relationship. The sadness may come as the victim misses some of the good things about their partner. Unfortunately, the cycle of abuse will continue as long as one stays in the relationship also stress related to leaving an abusive relationship can cause sleep disturbances, nausea, weight gain or weight loss.

Counselors have documented victims of abuse experiencing sadness, hopelessness, irritability, poor concentration, as well as memory problems. Taking care of ones health will be the key to coping with these emotional symptoms. It is important to note that spurts of anger, grief, or depression are all normal parts of the process of change, and will be the stages necessary to rebuild ones life.

As one moves toward independence, they will have good days and bad days. Eventually, the victim can learn to trust again and to let others into their world, so making the decision to leave an abusive relationship is never easy it is advised to show conviction and strength as one seeks out a new relationship making strides to not repeat past mistakes.