When I was stuck in an abusive relationship you helped me get out
DEAR DEIDRE: MY partner was a real-life Jekyll and Hyde character.
Most of the time, we were incredibly happy and in love. But when he drank, he became violent and abusive.
He would tell me I was fat and ugly, and call me a slut, plus other things too vile to repeat.
When he sobered up, he didn’t remember any of it.
We had been together for seven years when I contacted you.
I’m 43 and he is 45. I felt so ashamed that I had let him treat me this way.
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You told me I had no reason to feel ashamed but that nothing would change until he accepted he had an alcohol problem.
You sent me your support pack, Abusive Partners, and urged me to talk to Adfam () who help people living with a drug or alcohol abuser.
After receiving your reply, I plucked up the courage to talk to my partner.
He realised he risked losing me, and has cut down greatly on his drinking.
He is having counselling to deal with his issues.
Life is so much better and I finally feel we have a future. Thank you.
DEIDRE SAYS: People who have drinking problems have to want to seek help. I hope things continue to improve for you.
