Are you seeing a man who is verbally or physically competitive with you, or usually abusive? Did the relationship start off on a great foot, where you two were properly in sync, and then it seemed that things changed? Has he become angry, non-communicative, or violent? However, there are many women all over the world who have been in this very situation. If he is hurting you, whether it’s emotional or physical, you have to get yourself out of this risky situation before things go any further.

Make sure that you have a support network to fall back on. Friends, family or even coworkers can be a part of that support network. Let them know what is going on in your life at home. It is perfectly normal to feel humiliated or ashamed about your scenario — that is the mindset that so many abusive men prey on. It will be difficult to talk to others about your situation at first, but it is crucial that you have people who care about you around when you do need to leave.

Harassing men will take advantage of weakness in a woman. You must learn to respect yourself and say no when it is suitable. If you are nervous that he will hurt you if you say no to him or otherwise disappoint him, you must leave instantly. You will not be able to please him until he stops hurting you, nor will you be able to make him happy enough that he will change for you. Abusive men are violent and need therapy – they do not need a woman willing to take the hit so that they can feel better. Stand on your own two feet and walk right out the door.

Love is a funny thing; it will make us sacrifice our own pleasure, health, and well-being just to be close to the person we care about. However, that’s the stupidity of love. You cannot change a person simply by being there for them, and you particularly cannot change a person by letting them repeat their aggressive and misdirected habits.

There is definitely no reason to stay with an violent partner. Many women in abusive relationships will reason that they are trying to help him, but the help he needs is something he needs to get on his own. Have respect for yourself and leave before things get worse. If he truly is capable of change, he will have to do it without you.