Understanding “Flying Monkeys” After Abuse: How to Handle Manipulation and Gaslighting
By Makayla Shave One of the most challenging and unexpected obstacles survivors face after leaving an abusive relationship is the emergence of “flying monkeys.” These individuals—whether friends, family, or acquaintances—may unknowingly support the abuser, often questioning or downplaying your experience. At Break the Silence Against Domestic Violence (BTSADV), we believe that understanding this dynamic is […]
Understanding the Complex Layers of Domestic Violence: Prevention and Support.
By Sammie Rose Domestic violence is a pervasive issue, affecting millions of lives each day. While most think of physical abuse, the layers of domestic violence stretch far beyond that, encompassing emotional, psychological, and financial forms. Each instance causes deep harm, with some victims losing their lives to their abusers. The question remains: How many […]
Creating a Safety Plan: Essential Steps for Leaving an Abusive Relationship.
By Mikayla Shave So, you’ve come to the painful realization that you’re in an abusive relationship, but now you’re faced with the overwhelming question: what do I do next? Your mind is flooded with questions, doubts, and fears. While friends and family may have tried to help you see the situation for what it is, […]
Breaking the Cycle of Domestic Violence: Is It Learned or Taught?
Is it learned or is it taught? My story starts with enduring domestic violence with my children’s father. I was too scared to leave and too dependent on him to risk going and creating a life on my own with three kids. I stayed for the fact that I wanted to give my children something […]
Surviving Domestic Violence and Assault: My Journey of Fear and Resilience
My now ex boyfriend and I were sitting down talking and we had some exchange of words and he followed me from the basement to the living room and I he just sat on the couch acting weird so I went outside and called 911 because I was scared and nothing even happened physically I […]
From Trauma to Triumph: My Journey of Healing and Resilience
There was a time in my life when I felt trapped in a cycle of abuse and manipulation. I was used and mistreated, and the weight of my trauma seemed unbearable. Each day felt like a struggle, and I often wondered if I would ever find a way out. But deep within me, there was […]
