Divorce As the Better Option - 4 Signs Leaving May Be Better Than Staying
By Shannon E Cook

Divorce is never an easy decision to make. There is a shared history, living arrangements, finances, mutual friends and family members, and of course the children to consider. However, there are instances where the damage and cost of staying in a marriage may be higher than the damage that will occur by leaving it. In these situations, ultimately saving yourself may a better option than trying to maintain a marriage that is harmful to you. Here are 4 signs the marriage may be better off ending.

1. There is abuse in the relationship. If there is physical abuse occurring, please consult with a domestic violence shelter or a counselor who specializes in this issue. You need professional advice to help you figure out the best approach to getting out of your particular situation safely. If you are a victim of emotional and psychological abuse, understand that like physical abuse, it will often get worse. Emotional abuse is extremely psychologically damaging and the effects can be long lasting.

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....and not even acknowledge it to himself! Why? Because he's off charming the socks off of new women as if your years together didn't even exist!

The sociopathic narcissistic ex continually acts in abusive, bewildering and confusing ways. He is not above committing destructive acts. When the breakup becomes a reality, it is likely that his 'false persona' will completely disappear all together and you will most likely experience the most hurtful of behavior from him. He is completely lacking in empathy, and - since he is not receiving any admiration from you anymore - he will dismiss you and discard you as worthless to him, consequently dropping any fake front that he use to put up in order to keep you in the relationship. Click here to read 'The Counterfeit Heart: Breaking Up With a Narcissist - the Sociopath in Your Life' by Tigress Luv

2. Your partner has an untreated addiction. There are many concerns with this scenario. Practically speaking, you could be setting yourself up for legal and financial woes if your partner drinks and drives, injures or kills someone, or otherwise commits a crime due to the influence of the substance. Your life is likely to be consumed with the series of crises that your partner's addictions create. You may even be in danger of being injured by your partner when he or she is under the influence, for example if you get into a car with him or her and there is an accident.

3. Your partner commits serial infidelity. A marriage can actually be strengthened after an affair if both parties make an effort, communication is improved, and there is greater accountability between the spouses. However, if infidelity is a pattern, trust can never be restored and there is no foundation for the marriage. In addition, you are putting your health at risk by remaining in a non-monogamous relationship.

4. Your partner has a personality disorder. These disorders, like narcissism and sociopathy/psychopathy, are hard wired personality disfunctions that cause individuals to act out in hurtful and destructive ways. Essentially the personality cannot be significantly changed, so staying with a sociopath, for example, will be an exercise in sadness, bewilderment, and behavioral management.