18 Brave Domestic Violence Survivors Speak Out — This Will Break Your Heart

In the U.S., every NINE SECONDS, a woman is assaulted or beaten.

How is that for a sobering thought?

Domestic violence is all around us. It’s not always loud and obvious — in fact, often it’s quiet, subdued, secretive. According to the CDC, “more than one in three women (35.6%) and more than one in four men (28.5%) in the United States have experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime.”

Sadly, not everyone escapes the grips of domestic violence, but if they do, there are emotional and physical scars for years following their trauma. As a testament that there is life afterwards, a number of survivors spoke out anonymously via Whisper. This is what they had to say:

You are NEVER to blame for someone beating you…especially those who claim to love and care about you. If you know someone who suffers from domestic violence, are a victim yourself, or just suspect something, speak out. There are tons of resources at your disposal. Call (800) 621-4673 for help, visit The National Domestic Violence Hotline, or go to S.A.F.E for other services.

You deserve better.