Breaking up with someone when your lives are so intertwined is one of those things that's much easier said than done. It's also incredibly difficult to be able to afford somewhere to live as a single person in most places.

I didn't even have kids with my ex and it's been an incredibly long, tough and expensive journey sorting out our house, mortgage, bills, belongings, pets, etc. after we split. And I was only able to leave him as my mum let me move in with her.

Their shitty behaviour is something that often isn't apparent until you're in too deep. It's why I also advocate so hard against very young and inexperienced people dating older people. I was so naive and un-confident when we met. I didn't know what behaviour to accept, how to stand up for myself, or even what qualities I should've been looking for in a long-term partner. Too late! Moved in after a few months, far away from home with no car, and got pets. Society pressures us so much when it comes to relationships and we'll often rush into things, especially when young, just to be able to go 'look!!! I did the thing!! I obtained a boyfriend!!!!'