They say that you should maintain family ties no matter what(or at least that is the socially accepted norm) but how difficult or hard would it be to just cut ties?

For me it's been the only option I had to keep somewhat sane and stable and as such I developed a hardened exterior to certain parts of my family... Cut most out of my life completely.

You have your own life to lead after all and no one can do for you but you. From what I've read of the above you are being held back and emotionally manipulated by others who are close and can hurt you... Not pleasant at all.