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Porn addicted husband spent 22k on prostitutes

Goofy
Community Member

5 years ago I found out my partner of 20 years has a 35+ year porn addiction and had seen 2 prostitutes. Despite evidence he denied he had seen them, said he just booked them but couldn't go. That there were only were these 2. He then proceeded to threaten to kill himself despite it being me that had been treated appallingly.

 

We had councelling. He lied all through it. Never admitted what happened. A couple of years later I was fed up with no progress. I said get help or I'm leaving. He went to a counsellor. He NEVER mentioned his sex issue in therapy. I found out that he had spent over 22 thousand on prostitutes and continued to see them the whole time he was supposed to be dealing with his issues in therapy. He lied to me, his own therapist, and in couples therapy. He still said he never went to visit them.

 

Later he said he visited 1 but never had sex.

 

All he has ever done is lie and not address the issue. I had enough.

 

Last we I asked him to move out. For a trial separation. If he doesn't work on this in therapy it will be permanent. My therapist and friends think that as he's had over 20 years of not going to therapy when asked it doesn't seem likely he will now. I agree.

 

Unfortunately his behaviour has greatly contributed to mental health decline for me. I have severe stress, anxiety and depression. 

 

My therapist recommends I get a job because she's seen it so many times that husbands just disappear leaving partners penniless. I have been out of the workforce for over 18 years raising kids. I can't seem to get a job. My anxiety is so bad I can't even drive right now.

 

I feel like I need time to sort out my mental health now he's  gone but I can't afford to take that time because I could end up homeless at any point (he has engineered it so EVERYTHING is in his name) I have no assets, no employment references and I'm sure you've seen the rental market right now. 

 

So what yo do? I need recovery time but I need work. Anxiety makes it impossible to get work, not having work makes anxiety worse.  

 

 

2 Replies 2

BlueLily
Community Champion
Community Champion

Hi Goofy,

 

Warm welcome to the forum. So sorry to hear about the mental rollercoaster you have been through within last 5 years. You've supported your husband through every step of the way only to be lied and betrayed. 

 

Unfortunately the consequences of a betrayal is the victim end up suffering even though victim has done nothing wrong. Not a surprise that it has taken a toll on your mental health. I'm glad you are here on the forum sharing your story and getting help. 

 

It is very wise to think about your future and financial security. Getting advice and planning ahead is a good step. Getting back to work and starting a career can take time. At a time like this it would be good to get help from family and friends to find jobs and make recommendations based on any type of skill you have. It can feel like starting over but with help from family and friends you will get there.

 

Take care of yourself and keep us updated.

beyond_confused
Community Member

Hi Goofy,

 

I'm so sorry to hear about all of this. I can't imagine how hard this must be for you. I'm really proud of you for reaching out and being open on here. You aren't alone and you are stronger than you know. I agree with BlueLily, getting support from friends and family is really important. Look at all the skills you have and start small, you might be able to work for yourself too. When I feel anxious and depressed in my own relationship, I go into full work mode on my own business and put all my energy into that as it's the one thing I can control.

Not sure if that's helpful but don't give up, you can do this!!