i think its best not to set a deadline, as this is unrealistic and will only lead to disappointment.

with abuse, and depression etc, it can take years to "get better" as others have said. the thoughts of your abuse will remain with you for life, and sometimes you will get scared and upset, i doubt this will ever go. but it does get easier slowly, and the times you get scared and upset are few and far between. with something such as abuse it has a life long effect, there is no magic cure. but as long as you talk about how you are feeling and what you are going through, it will ease up and things become easier and brighter for you, and you are then able to live a happy, normal life.

take care of yourself, speak soon

simon