On June 1, 2024, the M. Ariel Love Foundation hosted a workshop focused on understanding and healing from emotional and psychological abuse. The event, aimed to educate about the complexities of emotional/psychological abuse, provide practical recovery tools, and foster a supportive environment.
Key Sessions and Activities
1.Introduction and Statistics Presentation
The workshop began with a presentation on the prevalence and impact of emotional and psychological abuse. Key statistics included:
48.4% of women and 48.8% of men have experienced at least one psychologically aggressive behavior by an intimate partner.
4 in 10 women and 4 in 10 men have experienced at least one form of coercive control by an intimate partner in their lifetime.
17.9% of women have experienced a situation where an intimate partner tried to keep them from seeing family and friends.
18.7% of women have experienced threats of physical harm by an intimate partner.
95% of men who physically abuse their intimate partners also psychologically abuse them.
An employed woman with an unemployed partner is more than twice as likely to be psychologically abused by her partner than a woman with a different employment situation.
Women who earn 65% or more of their households’ income are more likely to be psychologically abused than women who earn less than 65% of their households’ income.
2. Interactive Conversations and Activities
Several interactive activities aimed at fostering understanding and empathy included:
Group Discussions: Small group discussions allowed attendees to share personal experiences and coping strategies.
Mindfulness and Self-Care Exercises: Guided mindfulness and self-care activities helped participants focus on their well-being and recovery.
3. Rebuilding
The final segment focused on rebuilding for survivors. Topics covered included:
Be Kind to Yourself
Learn to Say “No.”
Practice Assertiveness
Adjust Your Thoughts and Beliefs by Replacing Negative Thoughts with Positive Ones.
Spend Time with People That Make You Happy
Conclusion
The workshop was a significant step towards raising awareness about emotional and psychological abuse and providing participants with the tools and support needed for recovery. Participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn, share, and heal together. The M. Ariel Love Foundation plans to host follow-up sessions to continue this important work.
Resources for Further Support
For those seeking more information or support, the following resources are available:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
- Online Support Groups: Survivor's Network (http://www.survivorsnetwork.org)
Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by emotional and psychological abuse.
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