Abusive Relationships

I have mentioned in previous posts that I was formerly in a relationship that ultimately ended in physical abuse. In retrospect, despite my ex-partner's many wonderful attributes, the relationship should have ended well before it finally came to its sad, nasty conclusion. I know that my experience was not unique and that often gay couples stay in dysfunctional relationships for all the wrong reasons. In addition, too often we forget that abuse can involve much more than physical assaults: stalking, isolation from friends and others, extreme jealousy, manipulation and obsessive control, and various other forms of psychological abuse. All of these aspects can make it very difficult to break out of a relationship that has gone bad - even though one knows in their heart that things need to end.

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Michael at Gaytwogether has many relationship self help articles written by professionals on his site - not to mention some good eye candy - that look at many aspects of gay relationships, from dating issues, to moving in together, and what to do when one finds themself in an abusive relationship. He has started a new personal series on reasons to leave a bad relationship. While some examples may sound extreme, in real life they do exist. Each of us deserves a happy and rewarding relationship that meets our emotional needs and which will build - as opposed to destroy - our self esteem. None of us should settle for anything less. I hope you find Michael's site as helpful and thought provoking as I have.