According to research, if you grow up living with domestic violence, there is a 50% chance you also experienced physical child abuse.
How confusing it is to one night be a savior, in that you may try to stop the violence between your parents…And then the next night, the same people who you were trying to protect just the evening prior, now turn their physical violence towards you. Perhaps with an open handed punch to the face or maybe with a belt, so long as they can distance themselves a bit from the event.
Today marks the start of National Child Abuse Prevention Month and we applaud and thank each and every person who dedicates their life to helping ease the suffering of a child who cannot ease it for themselves.
But we also must never forget the adults who were once these children, the vast majority of whom grew up living with domestic violence. And while the physical pain goes away, the psychological damage of growing up in one of those homes is even more impactful.
Growing up with domestic violence, they learned a set of LIES that keep them from living the lives they were meant to lead. For them, it is essential to unlearn these LIES which often direct their lives and embrace the TRUTHS that will lead them towards their full potential.
my parents were like always drunk my mom never cooked my dad did she slept all day they never hit me but emotional being hungry I ended with dv reationship
Hi Erin,
So sorry to hear about your childhood. No child deserves to grow up in those conditions. However, the fact that you are here today, reading this blog & trying to have a better understanding, shows the incredible courage you have. Your childhood has provided you with hidden gifts that help you overcome almost any obstacles as an adult. If you haven’t already, learn these truths here – http://cdvdevstaging.wpengine.com/the-truths-you-must-know/. Also, it’s important to know, you’re childhood does not have to define who you are. You are free from your childhood environment and now have the power to control the direction of your life.
I am a child abuse survivor. There isn’t a day that goes by that my life isn’t impacted by this in some way. The only thing I have to look forward to is making myself a better tomorrow by making my peace with the past. It is easier on some days than others.
I am learning my path on how to help prevent abuse and raise awareness that it happens.
Hi Rebecca,
The fact that you are at a point where you are aware of your past, and actively working towards improving is amazing. It takes incredible courage to face everyday being conscious of your past, yet continuing to work with yourself to better your life. It’s not easy, but the fact you work at it everyday speaks volume of the strength and passion within you. Helping others by preventing abuse, or raising awareness is one of the best ways to heal. It’s personally rewarding for the opportunity to share your story, but even more fulfilling knowing you can have a positive impact on the life of another. Thank you for sharing with us!
I am so excited to see, already in existence, what I have always wanted to see in place……recognition of children of domestic violence. THANK YOU!!
Hi Girlsandbearsmom,
It is equally rewarding to hear others as passionate and supportive of an issue that is so clandestine, and taboo to speak about that it has less than 10% awareness in the general public. Even though– Unicef deems it, “one of the greatest human rights violations in the world today.” We must work together to unveil this secret. Thank you for sharing and spreading awareness!