[VZ2561]

I recently ended my relationship with my abusive ex boyfriend. I understand that he never loved me and that leaving took a lot of courage and strength on my part. I am proud of myself, and I finally see that I am a strong woman.

Now, I have to figure out to do with my future. I have figured out that a lot of the reasons that I allowed myself to be abused was due to my family situation at home. I love my family, but I must admit they are dysfunctional on many levels.

I am a college student, and I have multiple options. I can go home for the summer or go live with a friend. I have the option of transferring to a new school in the fall as well, or I can stay at my current school.

Do I go home to my dysfunctional family and try to resolve the resurfacing issues with my family as I try to fix myself? Or do I go live with my friend that comes from a healthier family than mine?

Is transferring schools running away from this abusive guy? Or could this possibly be the fresh start that I need? The new school will be very close to my home...I'm not sure if this is a good or bad thing. Moving away from home caused me to grow up a lot-but I obviously have not dealt with childhood abuse that has now come back to haunt me. I can only fix this internal problem myself.

Will I fear him for forever? Is he still potentially dangerous even months from now, or will he have already found a new victim to move on to?

[whichwayisup]

Live with your friend. Until you fix you and are strong enough to face and deal with your family dysfunction, don't live at home.

Congrats on getting out of that abusive relationship! And I am glad to hear you're proud of yourself! You should be!

No, transferring schools is starting over. Due to him being abusive, you are not running, you are protecting yourself. Now, if this was non abusive relationship and it just ended and you were scared to see him on campus, because of the pain, and you wanted to transfer - THAT is running. But in your case, it isn't...

If you can, arrange some counselling to help you cope. I'm sure the college (either one) offers counselling.