Written by Laurie May, aka ELEV8 Her Mind
Edited by Shantel Sanchez, aka Your Bossy Big Sis
October is recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month
For years, I lived in silence—trapped not only by fear, but by the belief that I somehow deserved the pain I was enduring. Domestic violence has a way of convincing you that you are less than, that your voice doesn’t matter, and that no one would believe you if you spoke up.
But I’m here to tell you:
You are worthy, You are Strong, and Your Story Matters.
Breaking the Silence
When I finally found the courage to leave, it wasn’t easy. The fear of the unknown felt almost as heavy as the pain I was escaping. But the truth is, staying silent was slowly destroying me. Speaking up—first to a friend, then to a counselor, and eventually to a support group—was the first step toward reclaiming my life.
Domestic violence thrives in silence. It feeds on shame and isolation. But when we speak out, when we share our stories, we strip away its power. Whenever a survivor tells her truth, another woman finds the courage to believe she can too.
Finding Strength in Community
Healing doesn’t happen alone. It happens with community, through the compassion of others who remind you that you are not broken, and that love should never hurt. I found that community in women who had walked the same road, in advocates who listened without judgment, and in organizations that offered safety and resources when I had nowhere else to turn.
If you are reading this and you are in that dark place, please know that help is out there.
Some people will believe you, support you, and walk with you every step of the way.
Reaching Out for Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please reach out. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or by texting START to 88788. You can also chat online at thehotline.org.
Reaching out doesn’t mean you’re weak—it means you’re brave. It means you’re choosing life, safety, and healing.
A Message of Hope
Today, I stand not as a victim, but as a survivor. My scars tell a story of endurance, of finding my voice, and of rediscovering my worth. I want every woman still living in fear to know: You Are Not Alone. You are deserving of peace, of love, and of a life free from violence.
This Domestic Violence Awareness Month, let’s break the silence together. Let’s lift each other up, share our stories, and remind every survivor that healing is possible—and that no one should ever have to walk that journey alone.
You are worthy. You are loved. And your voice can change lives—including your own.
Elev8 Your Mind,
Laurie May