Breaking the Silence: Supporting Healing from Domestic Violence
By Ivy Bagley, FNP, PMHNP, Blessed and Healthy Families
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month—a time to shed light on a topic that too often hides in the shadows. Domestic violence does not discriminate. It affects people of every age, race, faith, and background. It can happen in marriages, dating relationships, and even within families. And its wounds go far deeper than what can be seen.
As a Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I’ve sat with patients whose voices trembled as they shared their stories of fear, shame, and survival. What I’ve learned is this: domestic violence is not just a physical issue—it is an emotional, psychological, and spiritual one.
Understanding Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is not limited to physical harm. It can take many forms:
Emotional abuse: controlling, belittling, isolating, or manipulating a partner.
Verbal abuse: words meant to degrade, intimidate, or shame.
Financial abuse: withholding money, employment, or resources to exert control.
Spiritual abuse: using faith or scripture to manipulate or justify mistreatment.
Abuse thrives in silence. Many victims stay because of fear, financial dependence, or emotional manipulation. Others feel ashamed or believe they are to blame. But the truth is simple—abuse is never your fault.
The Mental Health Impact
The emotional toll of domestic violence can linger long after physical wounds have healed. Survivors often experience anxiety, depression, PTSD, and difficulty trusting others. Some may struggle with self-worth or feel disconnected from their faith and community.
As a PMHNP, I want every survivor to know that healing is possible. Therapy, medication support, faith-based counseling, and trauma-informed care can help rebuild safety, confidence, and hope. Healing doesn’t erase what happened—but it allows survivors to reclaim their voice and their peace.
Faith, Hope, and Restoration
Faith can be a powerful source of comfort and renewal. God does not call us to endure abuse—He calls us to live in peace and safety.
“The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.” — Psalm 9:9
At Blessed and Healthy Families, we believe that God’s love restores what fear tries to destroy. Through compassion, community, and care, survivors can rediscover their worth and begin to heal—body, mind, and spirit.
How We Can Help
Listen without judgment. Believe survivors when they speak.
Know the resources. Offer connection to local shelters, crisis lines, and support services.
Promote awareness. Wear purple in October and share information to break the silence.
Pray and act. Pray for protection, but also act—help create safe spaces where survivors can find the courage to leave and rebuild.
A Final Word
If you or someone you know is in an unsafe relationship, please know that help is available. You are not alone, and you do not have to stay silent. Healing begins when you take that first brave step toward safety.
At Blessed and Healthy Families, we stand with survivors. We are committed to walking beside you through healing, offering care that restores both emotional wellness and spiritual strength.
If you are in danger, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org for confidential help.