Advice for relationships and broken hearts

My name is Caryn. I want you to know that I too have been through tough relationships. My previous relationships include: Abuse, lack of trust, cheating, mental illness, addiction, and inattentiveness. It took me a few bad relationships until I realized that I deserved someone better. I spent several years in a relationship that was full of abuse, both physical and verbal. There was absolutely no trust and an abundance of cheating. I didn't think I could ever do any better. Even after the relationship ended I felt that I was unworthy of receiving true love. For those of you living with a mental illness or dating/married to someone with a mental illness, it can be a challenge. I know because I am involved with someone with a mental illness. I have learned a great deal about mental illnesses. Dealing with those with addictions can be extremely difficult. Trying to get through to them can seem impossible. It can be a very delicate situation, but there are seldom "lost causes". Although not receiving the attention that you need in a relationship may not seem as important as the previous issues, it can be just as damaging. I would go so far as to say it is a form of abuse. When I was in a relationship where I did not receive adequate attention it made me feel worthless. Now I am in a healthy relationship. We have great communication and understand each others needs. There is only love and complete fidelity. No longer do I have to worry about abuse, lack of trust, or cheating. I am so happy and you can be too.