Breaking the Silence: Tools for Domestic Violence Survivors

We can find help in countless ways. But we need to reach out and accept the assistance from those willing to help. The problem is, after years of rejection or fault-finding, many shut down. One day I found myself like countless older women giving up and accepting my lot. For many elders, the only escape is death. They passively commit suicide by stopping eating and by not taking care of themselves. I learned that stress toxicity can cause certain cancers and health issues. I also learned how to protect myself. I felt empowered.

photo of people holding hands on top of braille
Photo by Eren Li on Pexels.com
woman in green coat crying
Photo by Mikhail Nilov on Pexels.com

I sat in front of the ACCESS representative with tears flowing down my face. I felt ashamed, lost, and hopeless. I told him I had to flee for safety. I had to leave the job I loved for the sake of my co-workers and the children I served. He looked at me with compassion, and he gave me hope. He did not shame me; he went beyond and helped me. People ignorantly say that a victim of domestic violence can just leave and start a new life quickly. Nevertheless, that is never the case. Victims of domestic violence aren’t just victims of the abuser. They are also victims of a society that labels them. This is due to racism, marginalization, and victim blaming, especially for African Americans.

Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com

Leave a Reply