How long will you hurt?

It’s never easy facing dangerous situations, your probably not going to be believed by many people, especially the ones you hope will. It’s so easy to lose yourself in the emotions that overcome you, the shame or the feelings of not being enough or even being too much. But don’t dismiss yourself. When no one is there for you, you must be there for yourself. That is why it is important to know yourself, know what your believe, and know what is and is not okay. You must know in your own mind and heart how to protect it. You don’t have to hide or run, but you will feel like doing so. It’s a good practice to know how your body and mind react to others disdain of you. To recognize how you feel, what your thinking in those moments and be able to keep your own mind safe, because those are the time when someone will try to break you down, belittle you, use verbal or physical force on you. Even in an uncomfortable situation where sex is forced or similar acts, that is still your body not the body of someone trying to hurt you. Unfortunately, there will be times you are unable to get away from a situation that will hurt you. That’s not great, but that is why it is important to keep your thoughts safe. When your thoughts are driven by fear, they create ways to cope and change who you naturally are. Remember who you are, and you don’t have to change yourself to be safe or to “not get hurt again”, it’s not your fault. Even if you felt a little bit of excitement, or it felt good, or you were attracted to the person who hurt you. Blaming yourself for someone hurting you is not okay.

Know What Your Fear Feels Like — and What to Do About It

  • Pay attention to how your body reacts to stress. Does your heart race? Do you freeze? Do you feel dizzy or numb?

  • Practice recognizing those feelings early. The sooner you notice them, the sooner you can take control.

    Recognize the Signs of Manipulation or Control

    • Learn to trust your gut. If something feels wrong, it probably is.

    • Know the red flags:

      • Someone dismissing your feelings.

      • Trying to isolate you from loved ones.

      • Making you feel guilty for setting boundaries.

      • Explosive anger, silent treatment, or unpredictable mood shifts.

    • Tell yourself: "I am not overreacting. My instincts are protecting me."

    • When guilt or shame tries to sneak in, respond with: "My survival is not selfish."

IT ALL BEGINS WITH AN IDEA

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IT ALL BEGINS WITH AN IDEA ✦