Coping on your own

Moving on in your life can be exciting, but it can also be frightening. It's very common to be anxious about whether or not you'll be able to cope on your own. You may never have lived on your own, or you may not have been allowed to have control of your own money as part of the abuse. Losing contact with friends and family can be hard too.

First of all – remember what you've coped with by living with domestic abuse. That's not easy, but you did it. And you left, which isn't easy either.

There are people who can help in all sorts of ways – you can learn to budget or manage on a small income, do maintenance or decorating around the house, help you meet new people.

Women's Aid workers can help, or can put you in touch with others who can help you feel more confident about coping.

Ask for help – don't worry by yourself.