My ex was psychologically abusive, but was also my first serious relationship. I thought it was 'just me' and accepted him manipulative and controlling behaviour.
Things got worse over a long period of time. One day he hit me, and I hit him back. I was annoyed, and considered leaving, but had been with him so long I couldn't face leaving. A few months later he destroyed some of my possessions and tried to lock me in the utility cupboard to stop me from going out.
I left him that night, and never looked back.
I think a lot of the time the relationship was loving once, but like mine it changed over time, and it takes something serious (like getting locked in a cupboard!) to make you realise how bad things have gotten.
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