Why do people continue to stay in unhealthy abusive relationships?

Women stay because they are scared. Answers like " they are stupid, like it, like bad guys" all come from people that have never experienced abuse. An abused woman is beaten down in so many ways, one of which is that the abuser will never let her leave. I was scared to death to leave and to stay so you freeze in your life. Then one day something happens and you make that leap of faith to get out. My ex still tortures me in many ways, now at least he's not under my roof but the fear remains. That is the answer, fear is crippling, unyielding and emotional. Anyone in this situation should go to therapy.