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Domestic Violence/I'm Being Mentally Abused
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Question
I've been living with ex husband due to illness for 15 years. He has mentally and physically abused me since the day we were married. I just wasn't aware of it. I'm now disabled, he continues. I'm like a prisoner all these years I can't take this anymore & something bad is going to happen. What can I do about the abuse? I can't prove what goes on in this house with exception of few friends and family who knows what I've told them or maybe they've seen. It's to the point someone could die. I don't want to get caught in that situation. The stress is killing me already. Legally what can I do? Thankyou.
Lora,
First, I want to know why you tolerated this crap for all those years before you were disabled? Why? There is just no cause for this at all; I do not believe in people staying in unhappy relationships, no matter what the cause or consequences. Well, at this point, I would look into resources such as the Human Services Department in your area or the local Family and Children's services office where you live as well, they will be able to give you additional resources on how to get out of this situation. Or what you could also do is, if you a way of having someone help you to a shelter, that would be good for you right now. I know that you may not want to live in a shelter, no one does, but that is a temporary solution to your problem. You have allowed this man to tear you down mentally and I am sure in other ways for years and it needs to stop.
You can also obtain an attorney and take things from there. If you are unable to afford one, look into obtaining one pro-bono, where the government pays for one and you incur nothing. What I definitely want to let you know is that you have a great life beyond this, if I can overcome the abuse that I suffered for years from so many men, so can you. I now believe in myself, that I am beautiful, and that I can do anything. No one has the power to take away your self-worth, please try to remember that. Do your best to find inspiration and motivation and do not let others dictate who you will become. You can overcome this, you have the strength in you, now just go and find it. I wish you well in everything.
All My Best,
Chardonnay Nicole Thomas
AllExperts.com
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Answers by Expert:
Chardonnay Nicole Thomas, B.S.Psy.
Expertise
I am here to offer my expert advice to anyone who is experiencing domestic violence and/or other forms of abuse within their relationships. Domestic violence has plagued countless people and communities across the globe and it is so unfortunate that countless women have lost their lives to this deplorable crime. No one ever deserves to be abused by another person. I want my life to be positive and healthy, and I wish the same for everyone else. I know now that I am strong and that I can make it through anything. No one has the right to disrespect, mistreat, and abuse others. People only treat us how we allow them to; self-respect and a healthy self-esteem are crucial to our overall development. Remember, there is hope, so do not give up on yourself. Abuse should never be tolerated, period. Adversity builds character and teaches us many life lessons so that we are able to make better choices in the future.
Experience
I have experienced and survived unhealthy relationships and I know my worth now. I have also been an AllExperts.com volunteer advisor since 2000 assisting victims of domestic violence.
Organizations
National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV)
Education/Credentials
Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) Candidate, Human Resource Management Specialization, Walden University, In Progress; Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology (B.S.Psy.), Psychology Applied to the Workplace Concentration, Summa Cum Laude, Walden University, November 2010.
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