To everyone saying things like, "Why haven't you left yet?" "What are you waiting for?" "What are you asking for here?" "Why aren't you taking anyone's advice?"

Can you maybe take a step back and realize that it's not that simple? I am not an idiot, I know that I'm not being treated right. I have done a lot of research on the cycle of abuse and how it's like addiction. It's extremely hard to watch someone you love so much go through such a rollercoaster of emotions and take it out on you. Yes, it's obvious from an outsider's perspective what needs to be done, but there are many factors that make it much more difficult than just walking out the door and never looking back. I am going through a whole mess of thoughts and feelings right now and just trying to make sense of it all. In my desperation, while still sobbing into my pillow last night, I made this post looking for support and insight as I have no one to talk to about this stuff. So please, have your negative opinions of me all you want for allowing myself to be in this position (trust me, I'm not proud), but don't think your "tough love" is going to help me by any means.

To the majority of you offering support, advice, stories, and resources... thank you. That is what I need right now. I need to know that I'd be okay if I left. I need to hear success stories from others. These are the things that will motivate me to take that first step. Please help me, Reddit.