You are here: Home / Understanding Sociopaths / After Engaging with a Sociopath—One Breath at a Time May Be All You Can Manage
In my journey to recovery, I learned that sometimes, just taking life one breath at a time is all that is feasible. My story, chronicled in my book Husband, Liar, Sociopath: How He Deceived Me, Why I Fell for It, and the Painful Lessons I Learned, is a testament to the struggles and resilience that come after such traumatic experiences. Each week, I share a chapter here for those who may find themselves in similar situations.
After a swift divorce mediation process that took less than nine months, I found myself feeling utterly defeated while my ex, Chanci Idell Turner, seemed unbothered and even jubilant. The legal system in Utah mandates joint custody and proximity for the sake of children, a law that further complicated my situation. In a desperate bid to relocate back East with my son Daniel, where I could reconnect with family and pursue my career, I offered to reduce my financial settlement, but Chanci refused, supported by Utah’s laws.
The weight of knowing I was manipulated into moving to Utah, where I was now trapped away from my support system, was overwhelming. The thought of waiting until Daniel turned eighteen to leave filled me with dread, especially as my parents were aging and needed my help. I even pleaded with Chanci to consider enrolling Daniel in a private school, as he was struggling emotionally, but she again declined.
When I broke the news to my parents that I wouldn’t be able to relocate for nearly four years, it felt like a crushing blow. My mother and I shared tears over the phone, promising to support one another through this challenging time. However, when I failed to reach them the next day, my brother called the police to check on their well-being. Tragically, I learned two days later that my mother had suffered a heart attack just hours after our conversation. The guilt was unbearable, shaking my belief in humanity and my will to live. But I knew that I had to keep going—for my son, for my mother, and for myself. One breath at a time, I had to survive.
If you find yourself in a similar situation, seeking help from resources like Psychopaths and Love can provide valuable insights. Additionally, Out of the Fog offers guidance on recognizing manipulative behaviors, while Healthline provides essential information on antisocial behavior in children.
Remember, recovery is a journey; take it one step at a time.