Hi Crazy Diamond, Thank you so much for messaging me. I agree life on benefits sucks! But is a necessity right now, shit happens! I also turned to alcohol when I was with my abuser, I had to to get through the day. Now I don't have alcohol in the house and I have learnt to drink in moderation in a social environment. Well done you for seeking help with your addictions, you are doing great! Yes I was also isolated, we lived in Spain in the country so there weren't many neighbours and no family support. I came back to the UK about 8 years ago now with my two children. I was forced to do that because my ex moved another woman into our house and refused to move her out, in a way I was pleased because it gave us the opportunity to escape. We did all live together for about 3 weeks which was hell but I had to make arrangements to move country, find schools, somewhere to live etc etc.
Yes there are groups where I am, in fact I am on a waiting list for a group for women who have suffered trauma but my first assessment is in March 2018!! Hope you have a positive day xx