Have I done the right thing?

Have I done the right thing?

I've been with my partner for two years, and have a one year old son. My partner is always telling me how stupid I am, or how lazy I am because I am just a mother. He drinks a lot, takes drugs a lot, and stays in bed all day, and works long hours. Sometimes he can be a caring man and nice, and a wonderful father. But, its destroying my confidence being with him. I told him I want to leave, and he said nobody would ever want to be with me. I hope I have done the right thing for me and my son, but I dont want to deprive my son. Please help.

You are in a emotionally abusive relationship. Abusive people will say horrible things (you're stupid, lazy, etc.) to keep your self esteem down so that they can easily control and manipulate you. If he drinks a lot, and does drugs, it's not healthy for you or your son to be around him. Get out of the relationship, at least until he can prove himself to be a positive, supportive, drug free partner and father.

As far as your son, it's better for your son to grow up in a healthy environment without his father, than in an unhealthy environment with him.

And, you must learn to love yourself so that you won't allow anyone to mistreat you. Don't be afraid to leave him. You and your son can have, and deserve a better life.

I hope I've helped.

What kind of problems can be involved in verbal and physical abuse?

I'm a little confused with this one. I'm not sure if you're wanting signs of an abusive relationship, or the possible outcomes. I'll go with the latter. There are numerous problems that can be involved in both verbal and phsyical relationships: stress, emotional, mental and physical damage. The list can go on. These type of relationships strain relationships with family and friends because they usually know, and suffer watching the victim deal with the abuse. And not to mention, the ultimate "problem" resulting in death of either the abused, or abuser. If you or anyone you know is dealing with abuse, please contact 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or visit http://www.ndvh.org/.

I hope I've helped.