Invisible Bruises

Recognizing patterns and providing support in the aftermath of domestic violence and family trauma.

The Revictimization of Abuse Survivors Who Come Forward

There is a rise of domestic abuse coverage in the media with Johnny Depp's current court trial. But the biggest threat is the court of public opinion, which is unkind to survivors.

10 Anxious Behaviors That May Actually Be Trauma Responses

Our trauma history manifests in a range of behaviors. These are 10 of the most-commonly misunderstood by others.

For Abuse Survivors, Leaving Can Be Harder Than Staying

When the relationship ends, an abuser's need for control does not. This experience can be worse than the relationship itself. Here are five ideas that can help.

10 Common Stereotypes About Domestic Violence

Due to harmful stereotypes, many victims of relationship abuse do not come forward.

When Allegations of Domestic Violence Are Used as a Weapon

Men are especially vulnerable to false claims of domestic violence, due to societal assumptions that they should be able to defend themselves against all forms of abuse.

When Trivial Situations Provoke Extreme Reactions

When we have a reaction that does not fit the instigating event, it may mean our inner wounds have been triggered.

Interview with a Former Flying Monkey

Flying monkeys abuse by proxy, looking for information to bring back to the narcissist and believing their false narratives. What happens when the abuse turns on them?

5 Lessons Learned Growing up in Dysfunctional Environments

Growing up in dysfunctional environments teaches patterns of behavior and beliefs that are carried into adulthood.

Developing a Safety Plan for Leaving an Unsafe Relationship

Having a safety plan in place to prepare for a breakup can be the difference between safety and danger, and will decrease the chances of returning.

Societal Pressure Can Delay Leaving an Abusive Relationship

Many survivors report feeling pressure to stay in unhealthy or even abusive relationships due to pressures from family members or religious or cultural leaders.

5 Ways to Be There for a Loved One with a Trauma History

Many of us have loved ones who have experienced trauma, yet we feel powerless when it comes to supporting them. These 5 tips could help.

Why Is Everyone's Ex Suddenly a Narcissist?

Social media posts and videos seem to be encouraging people to diagnose exes and others as narcissists without a real understanding of the term.

Kanye West's Behavior Is Triggering for Domestic Abuse Survivors

Post-separation abuse tactics such as stalking and harassment are often invisible in the eyes of the law, leaving victims feeling isolated and alone.

10 Ways Childhood Trauma Can Manifest in Adult Relationships

It often is not until adulthood, when people begin to notice unhealthy patterns that manifest in relationships, that many even begin to wonder, "Is this normal?"

What to Look for in a Trauma-Informed Therapist

Survivors of family of origin trauma sometimes struggle to find a therapist who "gets" them. These 5 qualities will help you know you're on the right track.

How to Redirect Your Anxious Thoughts in 5 Minutes

This silly exercise can help on those days when the anxious thoughts won't stop. It can be done with a partner, in a group, or even alone.

5 Ways to Break a Cycle of Family Trauma

People who grew up with family-of-origin trauma may have normalized the unhealthy patterns they experienced, carrying them into adulthood. These steps will help break the cycle

Posting an Ex's Secrets Online: A New Form of Revenge Porn?

Posting intimate details of a person's life on social media in an attempt to humiliate them or ruin their reputation is domestic abuse. These four steps will help with damage control.

Are Trauma Survivors Able to Have Healthy Relationships?

The way we experience our first caregiver relationships is usually how we end up managing our romantic relationships—unless we do the work to change.

5 Steps to Surviving a Narcissist's Smear Campaign

Few know the cruelty and chaos of ending a relationship with someone out for revenge. These five tips can help you navigate the experience and stay safe.

How Do I Know I'm Not the Abusive One?

When victims begin to question if their relationship is abusive, many often wonder, “Am I crazy?” or “Am I the abusive one?” These three qualities will help you decipher the truth.