Discussion of domestic violence follows.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and in a multi-slide post on Instagram, Abigail revealed that she is a “survivor” of domestic violence and has felt “compelled” to share her experience.
” I was in a very abusive relationship for close to 2 years,” Abigail wrote, while also stating that “my abuser took advantage of my innocence and naiveté and the relationship subsequently became violent.”
During the relationship, Abigail says she was “beaten on a regular basis, locked into rooms, and forced to pretend everything was ok and normal” while hiding “injuries most people didn’t even see.”
“I would use concealer and caked-on foundation to hide any and all bruises because, in some way, I still cared for this person.”
Abigail said that the abuse she suffered in the relationship made her feel “ugly and hated” and like she “deserved less than dirt.”
“I was certain, there must be something inherently WRONG with ME. That I was a bitch, a problem, stupid, useless, ridiculous, overly sensitive, unreasonable, and unlovable. These 2 years were the loneliest I have ever felt.”
Abigail also said she was “thankful” for her family and friends’ “support” for “helping me leave this horrible situation,” and she also notes that she’s in “a wonderful, healthy, happy and amazing relationship with my fiancé.”
“My C-PTSD (complex post-traumatic stress disorder) is much better than it was in the first 2–3 years after my abusive relationship,” she stated. “I still have moments. I still occasionally have nightmares, and certain things still do trigger me. I am still healing.”
Abigail also said that she wanted to share her experience to make others feel “less alone,” and she urged those who are “in an abusive relationship currently” that “you CAN get out of it.”
“I know it seems impossible and terrifying, but you have survived so much and you CAN survive leaving if you have the right tools and support.”
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger as a result of domestic violence, call 911. For anonymous, confidential help, you can call the 24/7 National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) or chat with an advocate via the website.
