Gaslighting Facts and How to Move Forward
By Sammie Rose For those who are familiar with gaslighting may express that this form of abuse can lead any victim into another realm of disconnect. One of the most perplexing things about domestic violence, or IPV, is the driven notion that it is limited to only physical abuse. How many have heard of the […]
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 […]
Escaping a Toxic Relationship: My Journey from Abuse to Awareness
I met my current partner (‘W’) in 2006. Mutual friends introduced us at a birthday party being thrown for me. I didn’t know him at all, but really liked him from our first meeting and felt a connection. There was a spark. He was very into me. I was into him. However, he did not […]
Tell Me You Are A Bad Person Without Telling Me
How do you know if that person that you are inviting into your life is good or bad for you? Can you trust your gut, or are red flags oblivious to you? And what about boundaries? This journal entry from our blogger, Amanda, talks about these very questions and more.
Rescue from my Prince Charming – Gaslighting, and the ‘Fog’ of Abuse
This survivor felt completely alone in what she thought was her ‘fairy tale’ romance. Without any reference, and new to dating, she struggled to identify healthy habits from abusive ones. She slowly realized that she was in an abusive relationship, and is working to free herself from it. We hope that she knows that she doesn’t need a Prince Charming. She has the power to be the heroine of her story
Survivor Story: My Children and I Deserve Love and Safety
Submitted by: Danielle, Survivor As part of the conditioning and manipulation abusers use to keep their victims trapped in an abusive relationship, the destruction of self-esteem and self-worth are effective tools. Abusers slowly convince their partners that the abuse is their fault and that they do not deserve any better than their current circumstances. They […]
