My husband has turned into a monstor. Please help me undertsand why?

Bell - posted on 06/15/2010 ( 71 moms have responded )

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Ok well my husband and I have been married for 3 years and have two young girls together. Most of the time we have a wonderful relationship, almost seems to good to be true perhaps it is. He always sends me sms during the day saying how much he loves me, always surprises me with romantic gifts or gestures and we have lots of wonderful times together by ourselves and as a family. But over the space of one weekend it all changed. He had three days off work and the first day we had to drive to a friends about an hour away, he wanted to service the car before we left so he did it while I got kids and myself ready, I was ready an hour before him, so I offered help but couldn’t do much so went inside to play with girls. When he finished he came inside to get ready but I didn’t want to put the kids in the car until just before we left because it was a long drive and didn’t want them to be in there longer then needed. So I waited for him to get ready then when he came out he started screaming at me because the kids weren’t in the car yet, so I started to put them in and he just stood there screaming at me saying it was all my fault we were going to be late, didn’t help me put them in. He screamed at me for 15 minutes after we started driving saying I was a lazy bitch in front of the kids, All I kept saying was “where did this come from, what is this all about” because I was so confused and I also kept saying please don’t swear in front of the kids so just to piss me off he starts saying things like “Don’t f##king tell me what to f##king do you f##king bitch!” Eventually I just said nothing and let him finish yelling thinking maybe he just needed to vent.
The next day I asked him to spend some time with the family, just have a game or watch dvd or go for walk, just for a few hours spend some time with the girls because we have not spent much time together lately so we decided after I cook breakfast and clean up quickly we would spend some time together. While he was waiting for breaky he got out the laptop and sat on the couch. After breaky and cleaning I came and sat next to him but he didn’t respond so I started to play with the girls in front of him but still no response, I asked if he wanted to go for a walk and he said no so I asked if he wanted to watch dvd and he said when he finished he would only be a few minutes. Me and the girls waited and waited and it wasn’t until 5 pm that he got off comp and by then I had given up and gone to play teaparty with the girls in their bedroom. (He only got up once during the day to use toilet). Then he called me to the couch and I thought finally he wants some time together but when I get there he starts screaming again. Saying it’s because of me he wasted the whole day. I tried to explain to him that I wanted family time and sitting on comp looking at cars is not family time but he just kept saying horrible things like I’m a waste of his time and I’m a bitch, mole, slut, whore (I’ve never done anything to act like a whore, always been 100% faithful and he knows it) and even went as far as to say I was a waste of a life. Eventually I just went to walk off and he threw a log of wood at me from the fire place! Wasn’t burning or anything and thankfully he missed. I pretended not to notice (as if you can’t notice a log flying past your head, haha) I went into the girl’s room and tried to comfort them because we could hear him screaming and throwing things and overturning coffee tables ect. Tried not to cry in front of them, but couldn’t hold it back. Eventually he went outside and I went out to quickly cook the girls some finger food for dinner and have it in their room like a teaparty. When I went back with food to bedroom I heard him calling me so I had to go out because I thought it was better to go to him rather then him come to where the girls are. I went out and he told me to make him something to eat. Usually I do whatever he asks without any hesitation, but I was upset with him so I said to him, “You have legs don’t you”. He started screaming at me saying I was a useless wife and lazy bitch and cant’ do anything right. I just went to reheat him some dinner from the night before because I wanted him to stop screaming, it took a few minutes and then I took it and put it in front of him and then he said; “I’m not hungry.” And he left it there to go cold. What the hell! Later that night he said he was just stressed out and had a migraine, that’s why he did it, but I can’t understand what. He loves his job, no money problems, nothing else has changed and he usually tells me everything. Anyway the next day he was in the shed and one of our girls was in the backyard playing with her friend from next door and I was watching them and my husbands dogs kept chasing the kids which they didn’t like because it kept knocking them down and stole their lollipops. I went to my husband to ask if I could lock the dogs in the pool area (which has plenty of room and shade and somewhere to lay) for about half hour while the kids are playing. He said that the kids should get out of the yard not the dogs, I said that the dogs don’t own the yard, he said yes they do it is their yard, I said humans come before dogs and then he screamed, “Don’t f##king argue with me bitch or I’ll give you a f##king backhand.” Loud enough for the kids to hear so the boy got up and left. But he said goodbye before he left and then my husband called him a dirty hippy! How can you tease a 4 year old boy like that just because he walks around with no shoes on. I haven’t seen the boy since or his mother and am a bit worried about what she will say. Anyway it’s been two days since then and he’s been working and staying late then when he gets home he ignores everyone, won’t even say goodnight to the girls. I’ve tried asking him whats wrong and he either says nothing or tells me to shut up and go to bed. I’m heart broken. Anyway I was wondering if anyone could shed some light maybe. I don’t understand where all this came from, he has never acted like this or been angry or violent like this. As far as I know nothing has happened, just the day before all this started he was saying how happy he was with everything in his life and his job and was even talking about expanding our family. I haven’t done anything behind his back so it’s not like he’s ‘found something out’. I just don’t understand. I guess this is part vent and part cry for help, What should I do, I still love him and don’t want to give up and leave after just a few days of this, but what should I do? I can’t really leave anyway as I have no family here and I don’t want to involve my friends in this as I don’t really know anyone well enough to ask for help. And just a small town so no refuge for women or anything and only have one car and already know he would not let me have it even if I had the girls. Sorry it’s so long, but please help.

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71 Comments

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Brandy - posted on 06/18/2010

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This is guilty conscious... this is what this is.. He is def hiding something and it's eating away @ him and he does not know how to deal with, so you've become his personal punching bag. Or, this is really how he is and his true colors are coming out. I had a BF who once did that to me... not as abusive, but turned my house upside down, got in my face called me all kinds of nasty names... he would get mad if I didn't sit on the couch w/ him @ night, or if I went to bed earlier then him... if my phone rang he'd ask who it was, what did they want etc... mind you I was pregnant... and bc of the stress, I lost the baby 2 days after I left him..

End of discussion, you need to take a step back and re evaluate your situation... this is not healthy, and as long YOU allow this to happen, it will. If it's consistent eventually your daughters will suffer bc kids talk, and friends won't be able to come over... and they will start to believe this is how men should treat women.
My BF now he gets pissy when he has a head ache or stressed out, but since I've dealt w/ this before I tell him straight forward you won't speak to me this way, and if you continue you will be alone, promise..
You have to stand up for your self...

Crystal - posted on 06/18/2010

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Honey you need to get out of there. Take if from me, I stayed in an abusive relationship for 4 years. And just because he hasn't hit you...yet, doesn't mean it's not abusive. My ex treated me badly, calling me things, being disrespectful, and eventually he slapped me. I thought that would be the end of it, but it only got worse. A weekly slap turned into several daily beatings with fists, electrical cords, boards, hangers, etc. It was hell, and I hate to see anyone go through it. I understand how hard it is to leave, you love him and for some odd reason no matter how awful these men treat you, you don't want to hurt them. You don't deserve the way he treats you, I don't care if you were the b***h he says you are, it doesn't deserve logs thrown at you, or for him to tear you down. Marriage is about love, and he's not loving. Imagine if that log had hit you, he could have killed you. If he's that unpredictable and irrational the kids are in danger. The fact that he values the dogs more than his own children scares me. Just those little comments say so much about his character. I don't know if he hid this side of him all along, or if something in him is suddenly not mentally stable. But either way you and your kids do NOT deserve to live like this the rest of your entire lives. Just trying to make it through each day is no way to live. I understand your position, I know how conflicting it is. You can talk to me. There are ways to get out of there. Talk to you local police, they will tell you where to go, it is also good to talk to them and tell them the situation, that way if you do decide to leave, which we all hope you do, he can't pull the kidnap card. If the police are aware of what's going on ahead of time, they won't come after you for it. Also consider a restraining order. Look into your rights as a parent, see what you can do to keep him from trying to get them and lure you back. I know this is something you have to be ready to do on you own, nobody can tell you what to do. But please try not to wait too long he will more than likely only become more abusive, and don't fall for the temporary nice times. They are just that, temporary. The I could have it worse or he hasn't hit me yet is not a reason to stay or wait until he does. That next hit could be on one of your children, or he may lose it all together and go too far with you, your kids, or both. Also as odd as it may sound, the physical pain was horrific, but what damaged me forever is the verbal/mental/emotional abuse. I'm sure many people would open their doors to you. Check out resources, call counseling offices, the police, they will all tell you what your options are. Feel free to talk to me while you build up the strength to protect your family and get out, and even after. Please please please don't let you and your children suffer, abuse doesn't stop, and those couple days a month or week, or however often do not excuse the bad days, nor should they be a reason to put up with being treated like trash.

Marie - posted on 06/18/2010

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once they get abusive they will stay abusive, so i would stay away from him and get a devorce, and not talk to him. if he gets visitation i would have someone drop the kids off and pick them up for awhile. they will say anything to get you back and it will go smoothly at first than all of a sudden it will go back to him treating you like garbage, its an endless cycle and wont stop unless he goes to counsling and gets help and if he is seeing someone else he wont stop cheating.

Marie - posted on 06/18/2010

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hes probibly cheating on you.

Amy - posted on 06/18/2010

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i know exactly how you feel. my husband started doing all that stuff too when i was pregnant. he was violent, hurtful. first it started out as him spending all day on the computer, then it progressed to not coming home at all. this may not be your case, but mine was cheating on me. i am a stay at home mom, and at the time we only had one vehicle, so i was secluded to the house all the time. he's in the Army, so what little time he has home when not training or deployed, is very little, and most of it was spent cheating. when you feel like he's having one of his good day's, or not acting like a complete jerk, sit down and talk about it. don't accuse him of anything, just say when you did ___, it made me feel____. and ask what could help with your relationship.

ERIN - posted on 06/18/2010

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I work in the medical field and it to me sounds either something like the tumor (ie the headache) Or drug abuse, people on drugs have no clue what they are doing and his outbursts sound like withdraw from the med-drug. There is deff something wrong and you need to get out before he hurts you or the children

Birttney - posted on 06/18/2010

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I honestly think he has done something you don't know about. When someone a cheated they start seeing their marriage in a different way. You might want to consider getting away from him for a little while, like a break from the marriage. More for the kids sake. They don't ever need to see their father acting that way to you. They will start to think its ok.

Aniko - posted on 06/18/2010

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My best girlfriend is in a similar situation as you. Her partner seemed to have changed overnight and at first she was really confused and hurt trying to figure out WHY? Like you she has left and she said she didn't believe it was drugs because she would know the signs, it turned out to be drugs, he was and probably still is using crack. Unfortunatly he does not believe he needs help and blames my friend for everything. I'm so happy you got yourself out and I hope you and your husband can one day work things out. I know its hard but try and concentrate on your beautiful daughters because it is very possible he won't change especially if he is on drugs. Please try and not let it consume you I have been by my friends side throughout her ordeal and she and her partner are definetly over but she still has not let go, she is constantly dwelling on what has happened they have been together for 12 years so I understand it's hard and it will take time for her to let go. She says she is going to stop taking his calls but she still does and he goes on and on about how much he misses his son and how everything is her fault, he will not take responsibility for his own choices. I guess what I'm trying to say is if he is not willing to get help, please try and let go , do not accept his call or talk to him if he still angry, abusive or playing mind games. Take care.

Winn - posted on 06/18/2010

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Aren't you feel curious about his change of behaviour?Dont you want to know why he's doing those horrible thing to you out of sudden?Maybe you should find out without him knowing you spying on him like maybe hiring a private investigator.You wouldnt find an answer out of him even if you confronting him.Believe me because i use to be in your shoes.You already doing the right thing to get yourself and yours two girls out of there.Your children is your first priority.I know its a hard thing to do to walk away from someone that you love but maybe he's not the same person that you use to fall in love anymore.Do not see him yet until u could find out why he's doing those horrible thing to you.When you do find out the reason why he changes so suddenly then you can make a decision of what to do next.My pray are with you and your's two daughters....Take care and be safe...

Bea - posted on 06/18/2010

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I am SOO sorry this happened to you. I have three kids and am married to a bi-polar husband. I have 12 years worth of similar stories. experienceproject.com has groups like "I am married to a bi-polar man which might be helpful for you.

It is NOT your fault how he is acting. Please support yourself, let him experience (AND OWN) his experience himself. My life got markedly better when cell phones got recording devices. When my huband rages I immmediately start recording or video taping, even if he doesn't know it keeps me from thinking I have gone crazy. NONE of your friends will know how to support you. or understand what really happens.

Michelle - posted on 06/18/2010

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I agree with what a lot people have said here - he needs to see a doctor. How many times do you accidently hit your head, laugh about it and then just carry on? If he's done that it could have caused a clot that will need treatment. Apart from the sudden violent and aggressive behaviour, and complaining about headaches, has he been feeling tired too? Is he still working? I agree you probably need to get yourself and your children to a safer environment for a little while but try and encourage him to see a doctor or get him to a hospital. If he won't listen to you then make a call to someone he will listen to while he's not around and explain the situation. I really hope this is something that's sorted out for you very soon. My wishes are with you.

Sara - posted on 06/18/2010

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dont go threw it alone either talk to a close friend..l family member xxx

Sara - posted on 06/18/2010

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thing is defnatly wrong love...the only thing i would say is even though you love your husband he is becoming more threatening by the day..he has already threatened you with physical violence so the next thing from there is for him to actually do it!!!! you and the girls should be your number one and they and you dont deserve being treated like he is treating you..
get him to go to the doctors and see if they can find out what is up..or the worse possible answer to it is there may be another woman and he is acting like this out of guilt..if it is all brand new behaviour!!1

like i said you and your girls dont deserve this in your life and it can only get worse..the anger and violence!!!

hope you get t sorted soon xx

Nicole - posted on 06/17/2010

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this sounds like something that happened to me!..... i found out later that he was doing drugs.....i'm not saying that's what i think the problem is here, but it's just something to think about.....drugs really mess up the brain!....major mood swings!

Kelina - posted on 06/17/2010

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I just read your update, you definitely did the right thing. The last thing you need is for him to get physically violent and hurt your or soemone you love. I woldn't make him the doctors appointment, I would write him the letter. The thing is, if he is sick, he needs to be the one to get himself to a doctor. You can make that suggestion, in your letter, but I also think you've done the right thing not letting him know where you are. Have a friend drop the letter off so that you don't need to write a return address You are an icredibly strong woman Bell. you can do this!

Deborah - posted on 06/17/2010

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You might want to try getting him to a doctor it could be a brain tumor, or he could be using drugs or it could be he is seeing another women, take your pick.

Kelina - posted on 06/17/2010

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I didn't read all the posts but I can tell you one thing right off the bat, you need to sit down and talk with him, and let him know that that's not ok or you will leave. I know it is distasteful, but if you have to, you need to ask for help. It's best if you talk to him, not in your home but somewhere that you can be private without your kids, but where someone can help you if he gets violent. second, there are several things it might be. Like someone else mentioned see if you can get him to a doctor because he may have soemthing seriously wrong in his head. It could also be guilt. If he's done something wrong, and he's feeling guilty about it, he may be projecting onto you. The maoin thing is that you need to protect yourself and your daughters form him. If he is sick, he needs to get help, but it's better that he gets it before someone gets hurt. Ask a friend if you can stay the night, even if it means driving an hour. I'm sorry this is happening to you, it sounds terrible, but I hope it turns out ok. Remember you need to do what is best for you and your children and staying with him and letting him abuse you like that is definietly not best.

Francesca - posted on 06/17/2010

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This is physical and emotional abuse. And it seems to me, you need to get help for him and your family.

No one has the right to talk to you like that. Your kids don't deserve to hear him talk to you like that. The whole family will need help. And he needs help with whatever issues he has.

A friend of mine, well, her husband just recently had a psychaotic break. He wasn't violent. But he just changed like a flick of the light. He is still at the hospital, until he can work out his issues. And his family is getting the help they need to process everything that happened.

You need to go to a church, a doctor, and call you family. You need to talk to people who are in the position of helping you.

Where you are from, is there a Salvation Army near you? If there is, ask for the Captains. Tell them your issues and they can put you in touch with many services to help you and your family. They are good people. Even if you don't have the same faith. They will help. They have anger management, and family counselling programs as well as shelters and much more.

Your doctor is also a great resource and confidence.

And your family can offer you an incredible support, even if they are far away. And right now, you need all the support you can get. Its not always easy to be strong for your kids alone.

You are an incredible woman, mother and wife and do not deserve this.

Monique - posted on 06/17/2010

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This is domestic violence and even if you do not think he could hit you or your girls he could. These kids do not need to witness this kid of emotional abuse towards you and it sounds like he is either depressed, having problems with drinking or drugs or cheating on you. Go to a friend's house or call your family even if they live far away or contact a church.

Afifah - posted on 06/17/2010

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Well how long have you know him before married? Seems like it stemmed loong before you got to know him. If you still want to stay with him, you should be more assertive (not aggresive or confrontative), talk him into taking counselling... make your point that you want to help him. Ow... find out if he's been using drugs or anything..

Jalaine - posted on 06/17/2010

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Wow, are you sure everythig is ok at work? Maybe there is a problem that he is hiding from you. Theis sounds like a very serious situation and the incident with the log is over the top. Before he hurt you or your girls you may want to think about an alternate place to stay. I can only tell you as a child growing up in a situaiton like this, your girls can become seriously emotionally scarred. Please do something so they know this is not appropriate bahavior from a man. You do not have to be subserviant to try and control his outburst. You can do everything right and it is still going to happen. You are NOT the problem. There is something going on and you are an easy target. I truly hope that your family gets the help they need and you and your girls are ok. Prayers and hugs.

Sarah - posted on 06/17/2010

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Just wanted to say that what you have given your daughters is a wonderful gift - showing them a woman of strength and courage and love. Kudos to you for finding the strength in what I'm sure must be a heartbreaking situation.



Not a bad idea to look for help as to where he is at - and a doctor, if he's willing, is a great start. As you have done, continue to protect your children and yourself.



Thinking of you.

Heather - posted on 06/17/2010

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Hi my name is Heather, I was married to the most wondeful man u would have ever known... Till one day he was prescribed pain pills.. He was in the service, and got a medical discharge, from then on he went to the VA clinic for his problemes. As soon as he started taking the pills he was addicted.. And it only got worse. Ur story sounds so much like mine.. He started calling me names, then he started hitting me, in front of our children.. And again it only got worse. Then one day he was at work, between the combination of meds they had him on he ended up having a heart attack.. He was so addicted that they couldnt see it.. Now my 10 year old son and my 3 year old son dont have a father.. Please be careful, I let it go till it was to late.. Dont do the same..Get out NOW or get him help!!! Sorry u have to go threw this..

Carrie - posted on 06/17/2010

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Dear Bell, stay strong. You are doing the right thing. You are on the right track. Love on your daughters and make sure they know that this has nothing to do with them. The less they know, the better.

I do think that your husband has an illness that needs to be addressed, but much like asking for directions, men are often the last to see a doctor or admit an issue.

I would let your husband know that there are two 'hims' and that if the second, more nasty him went away, then things could be different. You must make sure that has happened before you consider returning. You must protect your children above yourself. God Bless you.

Victoria - posted on 06/17/2010

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Maybe he has some kind of in balance and needs to see a doctor,

Or I know you won’t want to hear this but maybe there is someone else that you don’t know about, and just to let you know I have been in two relationships like yours and you really need to be careful it will only get worse if you don’t find out the cause of what is going on.
Or get out or make him get out, try to find Counseling
and bring that to him and see what he has to say. He really shouldn't be treating you this way open your eyes thats not love.

Louise - posted on 06/17/2010

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I have just read your update thank God you and your children are safe. I think you have done the hardest part. I would write him a letter telling him why you have left and that until he can treat you like a human being then you do not want your children around him. If he wants to meet you then first of all have a meeting in a public place and do not take the children. He may be very angry and you do not want them seeing him like this. Try and meet him in a bar with a friend and ask the friend to sit away from you so you can talk but when you have finished you can go home with them for protection. If he is deemed safe then plan a visit with your kids again a public place. This is not going to be easy as you love this man. Do not get suckered in make sure he really has changed before you meet him alone. Hope things get sorted soon.xx

Louise - posted on 06/17/2010

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I am sorry to say but I think you will find that there is another woman involved here. I can say that because it has happened to me. My husband of 20 years suddenly became quite distant and picked fault with everything I did and went from a loving family man to a miserable grumpy git in the space of 3 months. My husband was not having a physical affair but he was chatting over the internet with a woman he knew at school. So basically I was competing with a dream. I found out and I went nuts. This was 6 months ago and I can honestly say things are still not back to what they were. We still have days when neither of us are happy and snap at each other. I still suspect him of things that he has probably never done. He just said that this woman was escapisum from his responsibilities at home and work. I am real life and sometimes to much to handle. I feel your fella is doing the same. If he is spending a lot of time on the computer look at the history. If this man is being violent to you then you have no choice but to either throw him out or leave yourself. You can not let your children see what he is doing as they will never forgive him. Try and chat to your fella or try to get him to go to councilling as there is something very wrong here. People do not change overnight. Protect yourself and your children they need to come first here.

Renae - posted on 06/17/2010

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Sorry I posted before I read your update.

I'm glad you left and had the courage to walk away. Good on you for going to such lengths to help yourself and keep your girls safe. It is sad that you dont have an answer to what happened, I'm sure you will learn everything in time. I still think that you need to see a counsellor yourself who can help you work out what to do next. I think you need to start working on a long term plan that doesn't involve your husband. If he gets better and things go back to how they used to be then that would be fantastic, but dont hold on to that hope, plan your future.

Maybe you and your girls would be better off moving to a city where you have more access to resources and help? Just a suggestion.

If I were you I would not make a doctors appointment for him. I think he will just get angry that you felt and then are trying to tell him what to do. I would send him a text message, as short as possible, saying in a very straightforward manner that his recent behaviour has been abusive and frightening and you do not know why this behaviour suddenly started. And that if he can explain why it happened and stop the behaviour then you and the girls will return. Tell him that you love him and hope that whatever problems there are can be resolved and you will be there for him every step of the way.

Then wait. I know if it were my husband he would stew over the message for a week before replying, so maybe give him time. If he never replies, then you have done all you can, you have to think of your girls.

PS Normally I would never say to ask one of his friends to discuss things behind his back - but I think this situation warrants it. Does he have a close friend you can call and explain what has happened? If none of his friends know what is going on then they wont be able to help him. Maybe he will listen to a friend and get some help.

Keep us posted on what happens and PM me anytime. :)

Renae - posted on 06/17/2010

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Bell, I think this is the first time in my life I am completely stumped for advice to offer!

Clearly though, there are obvious options about what is going on. 1. something has gone wrong that he is hiding from you - there is something about him or in his life that you dont know about and something amongst that has gone wrong. 2. he has had some sort of psychotic break - possibly from a physical mental cause 3. he has felt this way all along and has been pretending all these years and has finally had enough.

But, fact is, you know this man, and if you feel in your heart that he is not hiding anything - well people dont just go from happy. loving and sweet to launching a log at your head for no reason. THERE IS something going on, the question is what.

If this were me, I would sit my husband down when he appeared to be relavtively calm and I would tell him that his recent behaviour is really scaring me and I dont want to be scared of him and I dont want our children to be scared of him. I would ask him to leave the house (surely he can find a friend to stay with or even go to a motel) until he and you can work out together what is going on. I also suggest that you see your local doctor (even in a small town doctors are bound by confidentiality) and explain the situation - see what your doctor suggests. You can ask your doctor to refer you to a psychologist or counsellor who can help you work out what to do. Yes its him that needs the help - but you have to deal with him in the mean time and you need help with that.

I really hope this helps. I'm thinking of you and your girls.

Sarah - posted on 06/17/2010

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i sort of know where you are coming from on this topic! my husband gets into moods like that! sometimes i wonder if my husband is bipolar.... this could also be the reason your husband is acting strange! my husband would get mad and throw things in my direction or break things just so he could break something! he's never laid a hand on me! and most of the time its "my fault" he's upset! guys will put the blame on you or some other reason so they don't feel guilty about what they've done! my husband rarely would apologize for yelling at me! he has gotton better about it but still slips up sometimes! luckily we didn't have any kids when he couldn't really control his anger and i'm just pregnant now with our first! is your husband trying to quit tobacco use? my husband is quitting right now and has been having a harder time with his anger because he is quitting! we've talked to our pastor about all of this! and i've talked to our pastor alone.... he told me that you shouldn't give your husband an ultimatum... more than likely he will choose his way or the high way and you and your kids will be out of his life... just purely because he wants to tick you off! if he has no problem yelling at you and throwing things at you then he probably has no problem with you leaving! but if your children are at risk and its a dangerous situation for them then you are right to have moved out! but i don't think threatening him with things is going to make him change! more than likely it will only make him more ticked off!

April - posted on 06/17/2010

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about your letter idea...it is a way for him to track you down. i wouldn't write a letter.

if you call him again..i would suggest a pay phone. All he has to do is look at the cell phone bill and see where you are making calls from.

i know you feel bad, but you did what you had to, in order to protect your children.

i also want to say how amazing and strong you have been! i agree with the previous poster that i wish there were more women like you!

Ashley - posted on 06/17/2010

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I think the letter idea is a very good one. He dosent seem to want to talk reason, but he needs to know that you still love him and what to be there for him if something is mentaly wrong with him. I think the phone message is a good idea to tell him about the appointmen. I wouldnt go with him unless he asks. It may be very hard for him to admit that he has a problem, and you being there may make him feel like your throughing it in his face other then trying to be there for him.
I am soooo glad you got yourself and children to a safe place.
I dont know what you have told your daughters about why you left but if your having a problem trying to make them understaind my sugestion is tell them that Daddy may be sick and we cant see him until he is better. Daddy and Mommy love you very much and I know this is hard for everyone but we will get through it together" Make sure they know that no matter what they can come to you. Maybe in a few days you will be able to let them talk to him on the phone. but I think you should stay on another line just incase he starts bad mouthing you to them and you can end the convo. Good luck sweety. Your an amazing woman. If only more woman could be a strong as you have been.

Sarah - posted on 06/17/2010

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Well done to you!! You have made a positive move, and you are a very good role model for your children, even if it doesn't feel like that right now.



I think it's a good idea to write him a letter. He can read and re-read if he wants to, and it will set out what you want from him.



Stay positive, none of this is your fault. Should you choose to meet him, make sure you tell someone where you are going, and what time you expect to be back, and to alert the police if you haven't called or returned at that point. Leave his car details with them too. I don't want to alarm you, but with his behaviour, it is something you should consider.



I hope he seeks the help he so clearly needs, and returns to you as a loving, caring husband and father.



Stay positive, and keep in touch with people here should you feel down. You are clearly a very strong person, and a good Mum.



Good Luck



Sarah

Jen - posted on 06/17/2010

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I am so relieved that you are in a safe place. I left a man who honestly did very similar things (including the throwing stuff, etc.) in September. I know from experience it is not easy but you WILL get through this and your kids will thank you for it someday. Of course, no one here will know your full family issues but I think talking to your Mom is still something to do. You should before HE does. He may decide to call her and say who knows what. Plus, your Mom loves you even if you are far away. Think of your own girls, even if you were ill - wouldn't you want to know if they were in trouble? Wouldn't you want to know that they are safe? I personally wish I could do more for you than offer words but I think you made the right decision. Remember this - apologies are cheap and easy. The night I left my husband he had threatened (seriously) to kill me. Since that night he has gone through apologies and pretended remorse but I know he hasn't changed. You keep on doing what you would tell your daughters to do if they were in danger.

Good luck - please keep us informed.

Sage - posted on 06/17/2010

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What would you want your daughters to do if they were someday in this situation? Whatever the answer to that question is...do it. You are their model for how to live life. If they see you put up with verbal, emotional, and now physical abuse, they are more likely to endure it when they get in romantic relationships. If they see you leave, they will be equipped with the confidence and knowledge that they always have power no matter how bad a situation is.

Shannen - posted on 06/16/2010

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You say you were married for 3 yrs, How long had you been together including the years married?
I am happy that you left and are doing what you can fro yourself and your children.
I like the idea of the Dr's appointment Although if he has hung up on you once and you havent spoken since i don't think he would show up for it. If he did say he would show then i mey be inclined to go aswell to see how he is and see what his mindset is like. And as it would be a public place it is less likely he would start anything to drastic as there would be witnesses.
I'm not sure i would worry about a letter until you know whats going on. As hard as it is i think i would try and remain as normal as possible for your girls and see how things pan out.
Good luck and keep us posted. My thoughts are with you as i have a friend who 6 months ago went through something very similar. Her husband has sought help and i would love to see it happen for you aswell.

Angela - posted on 06/16/2010

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I feel so bad for you and your children. I was in that situation once, and it doesn't get better. His abuse just got worse. It went from verbal/emotional/mental to physical. I was actually afraid that if I didn't leave, he would eventually kill me. Get out now. Call your family. Do it while he's at work. Give him a few days and then contact him, but not from where you are staying. Go to a pay phone. Tell him that if he gets help, you'll consider coming back. Don't tell him where you are. Go to a shelter if you have to. Protect yourself and your girls. That's what's important.

Bell - posted on 06/16/2010

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Thank you all so much for your support and kind words. Didn't relise i would get so much help and support. A little update. I have left. I searched everywhere for help, I went to a womans councilor and they gave me recommendations, unfortunatly the local homeless shelter is full and I don't want to go there with my girls as it is unisex and don't feel safe. They helped me out with some emergancy money and food so I could rent somewhere. I got the paper and found a one bedroom granny flat at the back of someones property. I would of asked my family but the only family I have left is my mum and sister, my mum is ill and i don't want to trouble her as I think she would prob feel bad she couldn't do more to help and i don't want that, and my sister is more interested in partying then family. i didn't want to ask a neighbour because if i left i wouldn't want him to know where i was, which stopped me from going to friends as well as he knows where all my friends live. The closest city is 7 hours anyway, but where I am atm is fine, cramped but lets just call it cosy. Now I need to know what to do. He rang me up last night and asked where i was and i said i have left for the safety of myself and the children and before i could even finish saying what he should do if he ever wanted to see us again he hung up and haven't spoken since. I know it's not drugs as when i was much younger I had a bit of experiance with that sort of stuff so know what to look out for, (plus they have regular drug/alco tests at his work) also not alcohol as we don't have much in the house and of what we did have i checked before I left and still almost full, been the same for months. Maybe it is another women, but i don't know how to check as i can't check his phone or internet history as I'm not there anymore, guess i will wait and see.I can't understand though how an affair could make him change this suddenly and this bad, but i just don't know. I was thinking maybe I should make a doctors appointment for him when i know he has day off and send him a phone message saying when and if he doesn't go i (or the girls) will not see him until he does. Should I meet him there? Also i was wondering if it was a good idea to write a letter saying some things like i don't want the girls to grow up thinking it's ok for them to be treated like that. What does everyone think, what should i do? You all gave such good advice, some things i wouldn't of even thought of. Thank you all so much.

Elisabeth - posted on 06/16/2010

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I don't know what other sort of advice to give you that others haven't already. I just wanted to say I will pray for you and your children and hope that you can have the strengeth to leave for the sake of your children and you. Good luck.

Charlie - posted on 06/16/2010

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Jen K -

I dont think threatening an already unstable man is a very wise thing to do .

Teresa - posted on 06/16/2010

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You definitely need to get out ASAP. Doesn't mean you have to get a divorce or leave forever, but the safety of you and your children needs to come FIRST while this mess w/ him gets figured out. I don't know if it's a physical, mental, drug, whatever issue w/ him, but throwing a log at your head?! You are SO lucky he missed. Get out now before he does some serious damage to you or one of your babies. Does he/you have a male friend/relative/doctor that you can talk to and get to try and talk to him?

Kim - posted on 06/16/2010

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Sweetie get out of there...some thing is seriously wrong. My husband went through some thing similar and I left. I told him that i loved him but had to do what is best for the kids. I asked him if he was being the kind of father he wanted our boys to have. Later he told me that that is what stuck in his mind to help him change. I had to go 3 hours away from our home to stay with my grand parents and I stayed gone for 6 months. I made him prove that he had gone to a therapist weekly. It also turned out that he had a hormone imbalance and I wanted him to be on his meds for a bit before I would agree to come back and try again. Once home we started going to marriage counseling. Marriage counseling was good because we got the tools we needed to communicate better and learn what is acceptable in a relationship. It was a really difficult time but I am now glad that I did it. Our marriage and family has been really good now for 3 years and we would have never gotten the right help had it not happened. I think we would have divorced if he didn't get help. It will only get worse before it will get better if you don't do any thing. Step past your fears...confide in a friend...get out...and get help. My prayers are with you...best of luck for your family.

Emilie - posted on 06/16/2010

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I am so sorry you are going through such a difficult time. As this is out of no where with no reason I would suspect he is hiding something - maybe an affair however don't rule out a medical issue as the others are saying - the hard thing about that is getting him to agree to see someone. Maybe suggest a councilor to help as a mediator and might be able to get to the bottom of it if he is willing. Take care of yourself and the kids...Stay positive!

Jen - posted on 06/16/2010

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You might also remind him that while he may be bigger than you, he'll have to sleep sometime and you can do a LOT of damage with a baseball bat before he wakes up.

Jen - posted on 06/16/2010

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You need to leave and leave quickly. Maybe he is ill but you can't risk the lives of your children and if he turns the violence on YOU that's who is at risk. Do you want your daughters to grow up thinking this is how life should be? Even if your family is not nearby, call them and ask for help. If they can't, then ask your friends. If they are friends, they will help you. Dont' wait for it to get worse.

If he becomes violent again, call the police and ask them for help. Ask them for what your resources are in that area? Hit up google and find out what shelters are in your area. If you are religious, ask your minister for help.

And I have to ask, after all this - what about him is loveable?

And until you are perfectly safe, USE BIRTH CONTROL! Do not get pregnant if you can avoid it at all.

Shannen - posted on 06/16/2010

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I'm so sorry. But 1st thing to do is get out. No you wouldn't be leaving him just getting out of the situation until you can get your husband some help.
If my husband ever threw anything at me i can tell ya now he would be out on his arse.
My husband went a bit crazy like but he had been drinking heavily ( something he never does) and even when he had his melt down he never threw anything at me or even threatened me he did yell and scream but he never called me names either. But if he did any of those then we would have issues and he would be kicked out or i would get my kidsd and leave. And after i leave i then would try and sort things out later.

Pamela - posted on 06/16/2010

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oh my,you poor thing, get him checked out at the doctors,somethings not right,maybe a brain tumor or something thats trigger it all. maybe he's depressed over something.surjest a holiday. hope you find out soon hun,ask him if he's seeing someone else and if he wants to leave too...big hugs to you and girls xx

Abbie - posted on 06/16/2010

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OMG, how horrible. I think what makes it more horrible is it just happened so quickly ( from how you describe it) My first thought was drugs, but also it could be something medically also ( rare but possible)

How far away is your family? No loving family member would make you stay hwere you are just for convience. If you were my family and you called and told me that, i'd be in the car to come pick you up. You say you only have 1 car. Is it your car also? Are you on the title? If so then I'd wait til he falls asleep grab some bags that you packed before and get the girls and go!!! I have never been in an abusive relationship, but no living thing should be treated as you have been. Also you are not doing your girls any help by staying if this continues.

Is there a possiblity of another woman??

Jennifer - posted on 06/16/2010

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All these women here are smart to tell you to get out!!! Domestic violence is not a joke. Maybe he has never acted this way before but he is now. Don't allow yourself or your daughters to become victims. You seem like a smart enough girl to understand that his behavior is not your fault. If you have family you can trust (Mom & Dad, Sister or Brothers) then you go, and if he wants you home bad enough he will get in to see a Dr and figure out what his problem is. Just remember his behavior is not your fault and it's not your responsibility to figure why he's acting the way he is. Your responsibility is to protect yourself and your little girls. I'm really sorry for your situation and I hope you do get out, you'll be in my prayers for sure.