October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, andactress Abigail Breslinis speaking out about her own experience with domestic violence in hopes of reaching survivors who feel like they’re struggling alone.
“I was in a very abusive relationship for close to 2 years. It all started out perfectly, I was so in love,” Breslin, 26, wrote inan Instagram postFriday. “Unfortunately, my abuser took advantage of innocence and naïveté and the relationship subsequently became violent.”
TheStillwateractress opened up about the abuse she endured over the course of the relationship, sharing that she was beaten regularly and locked in rooms while being forced to pretend everything was fine in public.
“I would use concealer and caked on foundation to hide any and all bruises, because in some way, I still cared for this person,” Breslin wrote, noting that the torment didn’t end at physical abuse.
“The physical injuries were also accompanied by a plethora of put downs, shaming and harsh verbal abuse. I felt so unworthy of anyone’s love. I felt ugly and hated. I felt like I deserved less than dirt. I was certain, there must be something inherently WRONG with ME…these 2 years were the loneliest I have ever felt.”
Related:Actors Who Were Nominated For an Oscar at a Young Age
Breslin Thanks Support System, Shares DV Resources
The thing finally that helped Breslin break free of the abuse and isolation was the support of her family and friends, something that she says she is “forever indebted” to them.
“I am beyond thankful for the support of my family and friends who played an instrumental and invaluable role in helping me leave this horrible situation. I will forever be indebted to those closest to me for them not only assisting me, but BELIEVING me.
I am now in a wonderful, healthy, happy and amazing relationship with my fiance. My C-PTSD (complex post-traumatic stress disorder) is much better than it was in the first 2-3 years after my abusive relationship, but, I still have moments. I still occasionally have nightmares, and certain things still do trigger me. I am still healing,” she wrote.
TheLittle Miss Sunshineactress ended the post with encouragement and resources for anyone looking for a way out of an abusive relationship.
“The aftermath of abuse is a complicated and individual experience. I hope sharing a bit more about my story at least helps some people feel a little bit less alone. If you are in an abusive relationship currently, you CAN get out of it. I know it seems impossible and terrifying, but you have survived so much and you CAN survive leaving if you have the right tools and support,” she added alongside the helpline for the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
If you or someone you know is dealing with domestic abuse, the NCADV helpline is available 24 hours a day at 1-800-799-7233.
