Relationship Abuse *(please read)*

This time last year I was in an abusive relationship. He would yell and cuss at me, threaten me, and control my entire life. For a year this went on. He made me send pictures wherever I was and I wasn't allowed to see/communicate with anyone else, not even my family. He took pictures of me changing without my consent (I didn't even know he took them) and whenever I would try to leave him, he would threaten to send them to my teachers at school and colleges I was applying to (I was only a senior in high school). I thought there was no escape other than suicide. 

One day I made the decision that I was going to end my life because I would rather be dead than be with him. I tried overdosing on oxycodons, but it didn't work. I then broke down and told my parents everything and we took action immediately. I filed for a restraining order, changed my number, and deleted all my social media. I felt like I could finally breathe again. Weeks passed, and my court date arrived. It was rough, but I fought and I won. I now have a permanent restraining order against him. 

A few months passed and I felt like I was finally getting my life back. Then, one day I get a DM on Instagram from this super cute guy. We talked for a long time and we eventually met. One day he said "let's do this." and here we are, 3 months later, and I'm happier than I've ever been in my whole life. The man in this picture has shown me what true love is. He's shown me how I should be treated and what a healthy relationship is like and I can not thank him enough. 

I'm sharing my story because I PROMISE things get better. I'm so happy with my life right now. I didn't even know it was possible for one to be this happy. If you are in an abusive relationship, know there is always a way out. Also, mental abuse is just as bad as physical abuse. Please stay safe and be aware of the signs of relationship abuse <3