Helping someone who has left a relationship
Leaving an unhealthy relationship is not easy. It’s likely that the person who has left will, at times, question whether they have made the right decision.
They may also have previously been isolated from their loved ones, so reconnecting with friends and family is an important step. One of their biggest fears will be rejection so it’s essential that they are made to feel welcome, and not judged.
Although this may be difficult if you are the friend and family member who they have been separated from:
- Be sympathetic to their experiences
- Listen non-judgmentally and allow them to share their story
- Try not to pass comment on what they have been through
- Don’t place any blame for their situation, no matter what the previous history
Structure and organisation can be important for anyone who has left an unhealthy relationship, to enable them to take back control of their lives, and to learn how to put themselves back at the centre of their own lives. Encourage them to plan a daily routine to help them adjust to a ‘normal’ life.
If you need someone to talk to during this time, you can call the 24 Hour National Domestic Violence Helpline for free on 0808 2000 247.