It pains me whenever someone shares with me that they’re being abused. And if you feel stuck in the cycle of abuse, it can seem like there’s no way to escape it. 

But you CAN get out of an abusive relationship. And there are people who are equipped to help and support you as you do so. 

At TheHopeLine, we’ve helped a lot of people break free from the control and cruelty of an abusive relationship. Here are some of the things people realized on their journey to escaping abuse and starting to heal.

They Understand Things Are Bad

One of the keys to getting out of an abusive relationship is admitting to yourself how painful it is. This reality check is key. Check in with yourself and offer honest answers to questions like:

• Have I been hurt physically, sexually, or emotionally by this person?
• How does this person’s behavior make me feel?
• Have people I trust expressed concern about this person?
• Has their behavior continued even though they know it is causing me pain?
• Is this person controlling who I can talk to or be around?
• Has my quality of life improved or declined since being close to this person?
• How would my life be different if I could leave this relationship or distance myself from this person?

If you realize after asking yourself these questions that you are suffering in an abusive relationship, don’t despair.

They Want Things to Get Better

People who have been freed from abuse not only realized things were bad, but they also knew things could get better. And they were motivated to see that happen.

I have to agree. Not only because I think everyone is worthy of love and safety, but because I agree that “nothing is impossible with God” (Luke 1:37).

I know things can seem scary, but I believe God is always with us and will never abandon us. And I know He believes in you, too.

You do not deserve abuse. It is not your fault. And things can get better. You can take steps to protect yourself, your heart, and your spirit, and you have never lost your worth, value or strength.

They are Ready to Ask for Help

The people who have broken free from abuse have not done it alone. Asking for help and support is critical in any overwhelming situation. While your friends and family may not be fully equipped or expertly trained to help you leave an abusive relationship, plenty of people are.

TheHopeLine mentors are trained to offer confidential support to people who want to heal from abuse.

Email or chat with a HopeCoach whenever you need a listening ear. I also encourage you to check out our list of partner organizations. Many people care about you and want to help you, including me.

I am thinking of you and praying for you. And I believe you can find healing from abuse – starting now. You are not alone.

Are you coping with sexual abuse? There is hope. You can be a whole person, healed and recovered from what happened to you. Read more...