I (26m) finally ended the relationship and need some hope

Hey yall!

I was in an awful on and off abusive relationship for two and a half years. Even when it was "off" he (35m) found a way to affect me from afar.

I finally just ended it about a month ago. I can't help but feel like this person has set my life back drastically and ruined my early to mid 20s- the era of my life that my peers have filled with freedom and adventure.

I know its not guaranteed that my life would have been better without him for a million reasons but its hard not to think that way.

I feel like this relationship has aged me significantly and has affected me physically and mentally in ways that continue to unravel. I cant help but feel overwhelmed by how deep it all goes.

Long story short, I feel like damaged goods. I feel like this relationship took over some of the best years of my life.

I've been with a new therapist (who actually helped me end it) and she's been beyond helpful.

But if you can relate, I'm wondering:

How'd you get through this? What would you say to your past self?

If you have any hope or tips to share, I'd really love to hear it.