I'm sorry you had to face such horribly scenarios, but like you said, it gets better eventually when you are on your own. That's what I've been trying to do: become independent so I can raise my voice and no longer have to tolerate the irrational behavior of my parents.
Glad you're doing a lot better now. You are an example that things can change if you work on them. I remember reading a quote somewhere that said "Family isn't who you live with, it's who you die for" and I think that perfectly describes your relationship with your friends.
Maybe I will make an inverse version of this article in the near future. Thanks for dropping by!