Yes, it is part of the abuse. They beat us down, not only physically, but mentally, too. After so many years of being told how worthless and unattractive and crazy we are, we actually start to believe it. While many people consider physical abuse to be the worst, emotional abuse can honestly be just as bad, and harder to get over. We have to learn an entirely new way of thinking.
I'm glad you are seeing a counselor for this. Let them help you realize that you can do anything you set your mind to. You have been doing it alone anyway, even when he was there, so now you'll just be doing the same thing without him and his abuse standing over you. Hang in there. You and your kids are going to be fine.
