Abuse changes you. I want people to really understand that. It is not just something that happens and then goes away. It stays with you. After what I went through, I totally changed. I gained weight. I stopped wanting to shower. I stopped taking care of myself. That is what abuse does. It gets inside you and makes everything feel different, even the way you see yourself.
One thing I wish I had known back then was to go to the hospital right away. Getting medical help early matters. It can make a difference in ways you might not think of in that moment. If you are ever in that situation, please go. Do not wait.
For me, healing meant finding my voice again. I spoke to a college community support class. I shared my story at a retreat. Every time I spoke up, it helped me and I hope it helped someone listening too. It was not easy. But I did it. And I am glad I did.
I want everyone to know that you can fight. You can speak your words. You do not have to stay quiet. If something is happening to you, try to yell out loud. Run if you can. Go to a friend you trust. Call 911. Do whatever you can to get safe. You are allowed to do that. You are worth protecting.
The reason I share my story is simple. I do not want people to be scared to speak up. Fear keeps too many people silent for too long. I know because I have been there. But there is life on the other side of that silence. There is healing. There is hope.
If you are reading this and you are hurting, please know you are not alone. And if someone in your life needs help, be the person who makes it safe for them to speak. That can change everything.
