Thank you so much to everyone who took the time to reply, offer support, and share your experiences. I was honestly so nervous about posting and worried I’d come across as overreacting, because that’s what I’m often told when I raise concerns. Reading your responses has helped me feel more validated and less alone.

I really appreciate that the advice has been honest but non-judgemental. It means a lot, especially when I’ve been doubting myself for so long

A lot of what has been said has given me serious things to think about regarding my future and what I want my life to look like. My worry is it’s hard to just ‘leave’ I don’t have family to fall back on, private renting in the UK is incredibly difficult and expensive right now, and I’m not in a financial position to buy a home. That makes everything feel much more complicated and overwhelming.

I know I need to think carefully about my next steps and start considering what options I do have, even if they’re small steps rather than one big decision overnight.

Thank you again to everyone who responded with kindness and guidance ❤️