What should I say?

[Pig wrestler]

Hey everyone. Giving y'all an update on my situation.
Since the assault and arrest of uNPDw, we have separated. Her attempts to hoover me back in have been unsuccessful but they are sure wearing me down. I have started weekly therapy too.
I am now portrayed as the bad husband, the bad father who left his family. I feel judged because people only know her side of the story.
My question is, when people confront me, what the heck should I say? This is so out of character for me, as I have been my family's rock. The girls are thinking Dad just needs to work things out, she thinks - well who knows what she thinks, and friends see it as my midlife crisis.

What have y'all said to friends and family in times past about separating?

Mind you, no-one knows the truth about her. Her image is still spotless.

Thanks

[Poison Ivy]

"We have irreconcilable differences."

[bloomie]

Nothing, unless you want to. "As you can imagine this is painful and private. I appreciate your 'concern' 'prayers' 'checking in'."

[square]

"It's been very hard for me. I never wanted things to have to come to this."

Respectful and private but corrects the roles that she is trying to cast.

[notrightinthehead]

"I just could not take it anymore."

I found breaking the silence about the abuse I endured, a positive experience. I used to feel ashamed about the treatment I got from my NPDh and when I opened up to some trustworthy people they believed me and supported me. Somehow I feel that keeping the silence made me complicit in the abuse.
I would however be very careful to whom I opened up. Discernment is important here.

[MaxedOut]

 

[Rebel13]

Chumplady on smear campaigns:  https://www.chumplady.com/dear-chump-lady-what-can-i-do-about-her-smear-campaign/

Best of luck! This is such a tough situation. Really rooting for you here.