Many survivors of partner abuse wonder how to respond to intimidation after they’ve left. Regardless of whether the ex-partner’s motivation is revenge or wanting to have their way, interacting with them saps your energy and frequently causes you to feel hopeless and helpless. This article addresses how to respond to intimidation. But first, we’ll look […]
Often there is a gap between recognizing abusive behavior and both knowing what you want and taking steps toward it. This blog identifies four common obstacles to taking one step in the direction of healing. One step will lead to another. Fear Taking one step in the direction of healing confronts you with fear. […]
The holidays are painful when you’ve experienced a loss, including ending an abusive relationship. You may wonder how to start over, to create a life free of abuse. Though January is a time when many want a fresh beginning, it isn’t just a matter of setting goals or resolutions when you’ve left an abusive relationship. […]
Safety issues and concerns about the best interests of children were barriers to healing mentioned in Healing and Creating a New Life. This blog addresses two important ones that affect safety and family welfare. It ends with a list of resources to help overcome barriers to healing. They help you know the best ways to […]
Healing and creating a new life after abuse are multi-faceted processes. Often, they feel overwhelming. You usually begin the work of creating before you’re healed, so that makes it harder. Here are steps to navigate your path. Take Space First, allow yourself space to reflect on your partner’s behavior and how it aligns with […]
Survivors of intimate partner abuse sometimes say they feel overwhelmed by politics. For that matter, many of us do. Overwhelm is a rational response to destructive forms of conflict. A client example: “I can’t listen to my legislator because they talk like my abusive ex.” I view survivors as “canaries in the coal mine” of […]
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