My friend’s in an abusive marriage with a man who beats and gaslights her
DEAR DEIDRE: I AM terribly worried for my best friend, who is in an abusive marriage with a man who beats and gaslights her.
He’s trying to turn everyone against her, saying she’s after his money – and has even asked me to persuade her to agree to a tiny divorce settlement.
But I can see through his lies.
She is 39 and I’m 40. We’ve been friends for many years, and I’ve watched her turn from a happy, outgoing woman into a depressed and terrified shadow of herself.
She wants to leave with her two children, aged 11 and nine, but she’s scared and broke.
Her mental health is very poor and I’m worried she’s becoming suicidal.
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She is getting medication and counselling support from her doctor
I need help to get her and the kids out of the house and away from him.
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DEIDRE SAYS: Your friend’s situation sounds desperate, and she’s lucky to have you.
But it’s essential she seeks specialist support if she is planning to leave.
It takes huge courage to leave a controlling and violent partner – and it can be dangerous.
MORE FROM DEAR DEIDRE
The National Domestic Abuse Helpline’s website has lots of information on what you can do to help her (nationaldahelpline.org.uk).
Please also pass on my support pack, Abusive Partner, to her.