Living in an unhealthy relationship is, much like the name says, an unhealthy thing to do. It can drain both your mental and physical energy, and you are at risk of abuse. Here’s what to do if you are in an unhealthy relationship to get away and begin to live a positive life.
Create a Plan
Ending a relationship is easier said than done. Often, you can’t end an unhealthy relationship with a simple conversation. Leaving and ghosting your partner also won’t work since you may rely financially on them, have a child, or your partner knows how to track you. To successfully get out of a relationship and make it stick, you need a thorough plan and a support system. This can either be friends, family, or even domestic abuse centers, if appropriate. It can be hard to execute, but sometimes, the best thing you can do is rip the bandage off once you have your plan ready.
Get a Sole Custody Agreement
A big part of people’s plans when ending a relationship is a divorce, and part of divorce litigations is figuring out a custody agreement for your children if you have them. Even if you and your partner are not married, you will need to fight for custody if you have a child together. Escaping an unhealthy relationship is challenging, but you must do so for yourself and your child. File for a sole custody agreement to make sure they’re safe. Do what is best for your child and get yourself and them out of the problematic relationship.
Learn More About Yourself
Often, you’re not yourself when you’re in an unhealthy relationship. You became a fractured version of who you once were, and once that relationship ends, you don’t revert to who you once were immediately. An unhealthy relationship doesn’t end when you leave. Instead, it has tendrils attached to all aspects of your habits, personality, and behavior. It will take time to recover, but you must do so to have healthy relationships in the future, including with yourself.
This was a list of what to do if you are in an unhealthy relationship, but it’s essential to know that you will never feel as if you are ready. Leaving an unhealthy relationship feels impossible and like you’re sacrificing who you are and what you’ve contributed to the relationship. This can be true, but it doesn’t mean you can’t recover and create healthy relationships in the future.