How to Get out of a Bad Relationship

Breakup

Break-ups are hardly ever easy. They become even more complicated when the relationship you are trying to end has become a bad relationship. From living with an alcoholic or a drug user, to someone who is verbally and/or physically abusive or unfaithful, there may be many obstacles aside from emotions that stand in your way. There are options and resources available to help those who feel trapped either by fear or lack of options

Instructions

1. 

   Create a plan. Before you even consider leaving, you need to have a plan in place. This includes finding a new place to live, packing and possibly storing your personal items. If you do not have the money to get a new residence, there are shelters available to help you get on your feet.

2. 

   Remind yourself why. Leaving a relationship that has turned sour, no matter what the reason, is mentally difficult. They may have become a total stranger, nothing like the person they were when you met them, but you will only think of the good times and promises made before you walk out the door. This is when you need to remind yourself why you want to leave in the first place. Have they been abusive? Are they addicted to something that completely alters who they were when you met them? This step is pivotol in the process because you will need to reassure yourself that you are making the right decision.

3. 

   Leave all mementos behind. When you pack your things, it is in your best interest to leave any memories, good or bad, behind. This includes pictures and any gifts they may have given you. Without constant reminders of the person who was, you will have a greater ability to stick with your decision.

4. Seek help from the police. If you have already told your mate you are leaving and they have threatened you, ask a cop to be present the day you move to insure your safety. While some threats may only be scare tactics, it is always better to be safe than sorry, especially if you have been involved with a domestic abuser.

5. Leave without a trace. Once you have left, you will want to be certain that your ex has no way to contact you. Nine times out of ten, they will beg you to come back and make more promises they don't intend to keep. While your reasons for leaving are valid and justified to you, you may still be weak enough in the beginning to believe them. This will only land you in the same spot you struggled to remove yourself from. For your own sanity, and sometimes safety, it is in your best interest to make yourself a memory to them, never to be relived again.

6. Get counseling. This is essential if you were involved in an abusive relationship. Many who are abused remain in their predicaments because they believe they cannot do any better. This is caused by a serious lack of self-esteem, and talking to an objective party will help you regain your self confidence and inner strength. Both of these ae necessary when fighting the urge to return to a relationship that wasn't good for you and will help prevent you from forming an abusive relationship with a different person.

Tips & Warnings

• If you or someone you know is involved in a physically abusive relationship, don't waste a second in getting out. Even if it means taking only the clothes on your back, you must remember that material items do not hold a candle to your life.