Survivor Voices: When You Don’t Realize It’s Abuse

Abuse doesn’t always look the way we were taught to see it.

Movies and headlines show us bruises, broken bones, or police reports. And yes—those things happen. But far more often, abuse takes quieter forms: control over money, cutting you off from friends, belittling words, manipulation, or constant “walking on eggshells.”

In the moment, it rarely feels like abuse. Survivors tell themselves, “It’s not that bad. Other people have it worse. Maybe it’s my fault.” The truth is, many people don’t realize what they endured until much later—after they’ve left, after they’ve had space to look back and see the patterns.

That’s why this series exists. Survivor Voices is a year-long project dedicated to highlighting these stories—stories that remind us abuse has many faces, and that no one is alone in their experience. Each week, we’ll share a new interview with someone who found the courage to leave, heal, and rebuild.

These aren’t just stories of pain. They are stories of recognition, resilience, and hope. Stories that can help someone still inside an unsafe situation see themselves more clearly, and maybe—just maybe—take that first step toward freedom.

If you are a survivor and feel ready to share your story, I would be honored to hear from you. You may choose to use your first name, initials, or an alias—whatever feels safest. Please email me at TrinaAyKay@gmail.com with “Survivor Voices” in the subject line.

And to every reader: welcome. May these stories open eyes, break silence, and remind us all—healing is possible, and no one has to walk this road alone.