

Why Leaving Isn’t Always the End
One of the most common questions asked about domestic violence is, “Why don’t they just leave?” But perhaps we are asking the wrong question. Leaving an abusive relationship can be one of the most courageous decisions a survivor makes, yet walking out the door does not automatically create safety or stability. A survivor may leave with children, few belongings, little money, no transportation, damaged credit, or nowhere safe to stay. Instead of asking why someone doesn’t leav


When Abuse Doesn’t Leave Bruises: Understanding Coercive Control
Domestic violence does not always leave a visible bruise. Sometimes abuse appears as constant monitoring, isolation from family and friends, control over money, intimidation, humiliation, threats, or being made to question your own reality. Coercive control is a pattern of behaviors used to gain power over another person and gradually take away their freedom, independence, and sense of self. Because these behaviors may develop slowly, a person may not immediately recognize wh



