The effects of an abusive relationship can be long-lasting and difficult to overcome, but armed with the right tools, you can learn how to recover from an abusive relationship and turn your life around. In an abusive relationship, one partner exerts control and dominance over the other, using tactics that may include physical violence, verbal criticism, financial manipulation and emotional withdrawal. After an abusive relationship, it's important to seek support to make a full comeback and eventually learn to trust and love again.
Step 1
Right after an abusive relationship, you may be feeling a lot of pain and confusion. Seek support by calling the National Domestic Violence Hotline, whose trained counselors can offer help and advice for crisis situations, as well as direct you to local resources.
Step 2
Seek counseling with a licensed mental health professional to talk through your pain and help you build yourself back up. If you do not have health insurance or are interested in free counseling, visit the YWCA's Website for a directory of free counseling centers across the country.
Step 3
Turn to your family and friends for support. It will give you strength to be around people who genuinely care about you and want the best for you. It helps to have people to talk to about your feelings as you recover from the abusive relationship.
Step 4
Take care of yourself. Often times in an abusive relationship, the abused partner is neglected and begins to feel that mistreatment is normal, foregoing wants and needs. It's important to reverse this pattern and take care of yourself when recovering by eating well, exercising, getting enough sleep and giving yourself time to relax and rejuvenate.
Step 5
Vent your feelings by keeping a journal. Writing poems, stories, blogs or diary entries can offer you a safe place to express all your emotions. Don't censor yourself and don't worry about anyone judging you, as no one else has to see your writing.
Step 6
Join an abuse survivors support group. The YWCA offers many support groups, as well as domestic violence organizations across the country. Being able to talk with other people who have experienced similar situations can be very cathartic and empowering.
Step 7
Volunteer to help others who have been through abusive relationships. Becoming active and advocating for victims' rights can be a powerful step in healing from abuse. Offer your support to the cause in whatever way you feel most comfortable, whether it's volunteering at a charity walk, writing press releases or manning a domestic violence hotline.
Tips and Warnings
- Be patient with yourself when recovering from an abusive relationship. Healing is a process and does not happen overnight, so don't beat yourself up if you have bad days or feel confused at times. Sometimes family and friends do not understand abuse and may not have supportive reactions to your situation. Try to surround yourself with people who are supportive while you recover.
- If you are feeling in despair and may be a harm to yourself or others, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline for immediate assistance.
Things You'll Need
- Supportive friends or family
- Professional counselor
- Internet/phone access
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