How To Leave a Destructive Relationship

We all know that a destructive relationship is unhealthy for everyone involved. We know such a relationship can become dangerous. It is common knowledge that destructive relationships rarely improve unless counseling or some other avenue of help is received. So common sense tells us that if we are in a destructive relationship, we need to get out. But it can be scary for a number of reasons such as love, habit, comfort and not wanting to be alone. There are also issues of fear for your personal safety if you leave the person, that they may come after you or sabotage any future relationships you may get into.

There is a safe way to leave a destructive relationship. First talk to a counselor or your minister and ask them for advice and emotional support. Make sure that they are aware of any violence or threats towards you. Talk it over with them and come up with a plan.

Secondly contact family and friends make them aware of your situation. Figure out if one of them has a safe place for you to stay immediately upon your leaving the relationship. Make sure you have a circle of the closest people in your life, the people you trust with your life are willing and able to help you in your time of need.

Thirdly when your plan is strong, start packing essential needs for yourself and your children if you have children. Pack the things that the other person will not notice are missing first. Try to get some of your belongings out of the residence before you actually leave. This will make your departure much quicker. Being prepared is imperative to any plan.

Your fourth step is deciding if you should leave while the other person is gone. You are the one who knows the other person if you think there could be a dangerous confrontation, you should leave when they are not home. If there are children involved, the children should be in a safe place before you leave this relationship.

Lastly whether you have decided to make your departure while they are gone or while they are home, you should have protection such as a family member or a friend. If the person you are leaving has violence or anger issues bring an officer of the peace. A police officer will do a civil stand by to make sure you are able to get your belongings and safely leave. If there are domestic violence issues, have the officer serve the person you are leaving with a restraining order. This will help insure your safety after leaving the destructive relationship.

Of course the best option if violence is not an issue is to have an amiable parting of the ways. However if this is not possible, the above steps should make leaving your destructive relationship much easier. Be smart and keep a cool head.