Tragically, like many abuse victims, Jamal and his mother did not know anyone they felt they could confide in about the domestic violence happening in their home. As a result, they kept the pain they endured bottled up for years. Today, Jamal bravely shares his story about the abuse his family endured. He also reveals the one thing he wishes he would have had to help him get through that difficult time.
For victims of abuse, being able to disclose their experience with even just one trustworthy individual can shift the trajectory of their journey. Opening up about those vulnerable and traumatic ordeals to a safe listener helps people feel less alone in their pain and takes away the shame victims often attach to the experience. Abuse survivors who know they have support, even from just one person, are more likely to make strides toward leaving their abusive situation or finding professional help in order to heal.
Chances are, at some point, we will all interact with someone who is going through abuse. It’s important to make ourselves emotionally available and to commit to being a safe person to whom any victim may disclose their situation.
For many who have come through an abusive relationship, sharing their story publicly can be an important step in helping them find their voice and moving past their prior circumstances. It allows victims to recognize the shared pain and experiences that many others have faced. It also helps those currently being harmed or those coming alongside a victim to understand more about the unique challenges they face. If you have endured abuse and would like to share your story with us and others, you can do so here: Share Your Story.
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