Learning to be Independent
Learning to be independent after our abusive relationships is something we may have great difficulty in doing. We are so accustomed to living by their rules and their way of life that we don’t know anything else. We don’t know how to step, speak, and live. We need to relearn everything all over again.
Survivor Retreat Helped Heal My Shattered Heart
Every year Break The Silence Against Domestic Violence holds a Survivor Sister’s Retreat. During retreat we experience a variety of workshops and activities to educate, empower, and connect with each other. Here we encourage each other to step outside of our comfort zone to truly experience healing like never before, and experience a lifelong transformation alongside our survivor sisters.
Why is Sleep so Difficult?
The pattern of racing thoughts late at night to falling asleep, only to wake up again continues. Why is sleep so difficult? It could be PTSD.
My Ex-Husband Killed My Daughter
My name is Kris, and I have been a domestic violence advocate now for 21 years. In addition to my advocacy work, I have also become a resiliency speaker sharing my own story of domestic violence and the horrifying events that led up to the murder of my 3yr old daughter, Miranda.
With Six Kids to Care for, I Was Trapped
Elizabeth met a man who would eventually become her abuser when she was in high school. Over the years, they had six kids, which only strengthened his control over her. The physical and financial abuse kept Elizabeth and her children trapped. She had nowhere to go for help, and no way to financially provide for six kids on her own, so she stayed hoping it was the best way to protect and provide for her children.
Turning Trauma Responses Into Strength
In abusive relationships, it’s very common for victims of abuse to live in a state of fight or flight. While it may not be fully elevated at all times, individuals in this position have been conditioned to remain fearful and unsure of what is going to come next.