How to Get Out of an Abusive Relationship

"Acceptance of what has happened is the first step to overcoming the consequences of any misfortune" -William James

There are many ways to leave an abusive relationship. Telling yourself the truth and being honest with yourself about your relationship is the first step to begin the process.

Get very clear on the fact that if you are being abused, whether verbally, mentally, emotionally, sexually or physically and you choose to remain in this kind of relationship be prepared for a lifetime of misery.

Taking the first step forward will be the single best thing you ever do for yourself. It will free you to live the life you truly deserve and release you from the prison you find yourself in. No one deserves to be treated badly in the name of love.

Oprah always says, "Love doesn't hurt." Sure people have their ups and downs but that isn't what we are discussing here. You know deep down inside if you are being abused.

So how do you get out? The severity of your abuse will determine your plan of action. If you see the signs early on and choose to ignore them, they will only get worse. The sooner you leave, the better off you will be.

If you are in an extremely violent or escalating situation you have to plan safely and secretly. There are many hot lines and help lines you can contact. Just Google Domestic Abuse Hotline. These organizations will be able to help you plan your escape with a step by step strategy in helping you make the transition.

Find someone you can trust to help you prepare when he isn't around. This person can secure your get-a-way gear in a safe place, i.e. cell phone, money, clothing, documentation of abuse, birth certificates and any other items necessary for your survival.

If you are in the kind of relationship that hasn't gotten to this point yet, consider yourself lucky but don't be lulled into a sense of "My relationship isn't that bad" syndrome. Or, "He doesn't abuse me all the time."

If you are experiencing the warning signs of abuse early on, no amount of trying to fix him or hoping things will get better will make it so.

You are in for a rude awakening if you refuse to admit the truth to yourself. Making excuses and rationalizing abusive behaviors will only bury you deeper into what can become a living nightmare.

Are you in an unhealthy relationship? Susan Russo is an author and coach whose pointed and direct approach has helped many people move beyond the heartache of a divorce and breakup and see there really is life after what's his or her name. Would you like to learn how to move on sooner rather than later? Read Susan's book and you will have your answers.