Domestic violence is something we can’t just sweep under the rug. The numbers are heartbreaking: 1 in 3 women in the United States will experience some form of physical violence from an intimate partner in their lifetime. More than 41% have endured contact sexual violence, physical abuse, or stalking, and over 61 million women have faced psychological aggression. These aren’t just numbers—they represent real women, real pain, and real lives changed forever.
That’s why I wanted to have this conversation. Because behind those statistics are stories of survival, healing, and hope. And this week on Marriage, Motherhood & PTSD, I had the honor of sitting down with two women I’ve known since we were kids—two women who have walked through the storm of abuse and come out on the other side stronger than ever.
The Women Behind the Stories
My first guest, Tamia Harris, has been my best friend since I was 11 years old. She’s a nurse and the founder of Mercifully Mended, an organization that helps rehome domestic abuse survivors. Tamia has turned her pain into purpose, and she’s making a difference for women who need a fresh start.
My second guest, Stephanie Adams, is an attorney for a Fortune 500 company, a proud mom, and a volunteer with Legal Aid and her local hunger center. Her heart for service and her strength in adversity inspire me every single day.
Abuse Doesn’t Always Look Like Abuse
One thing our conversation made clear is that abuse doesn’t always announce itself. It can start subtle—controlling behavior, isolation, little jabs meant to chip away at your confidence—and then grow into something you never imagined you’d face.
“Abuse can happen to anyone, but it doesn’t have to define your future.”
Both Tamia and Stephanie shared how their situations started and the red flags they overlooked. And they reminded us that leaving isn’t just a matter of packing a bag—it’s often dangerous, complicated, and something survivors attempt multiple times before they can truly break free.
The Emotional and Spiritual Wounds
Abuse doesn’t just hurt the body—it wounds the mind, the heart, and even the spirit. My guests talked about the inner conversations they had with themselves, how their self-esteem took hit after hit, and how reconnecting with God became a turning point in their healing.
“Faith wasn’t just comfort; it was the anchor that kept me grounded.”
For both women, faith wasn’t an afterthought—it was the lifeline that pulled them out of darkness and into a new chapter.
How to Support a Survivor
When someone you love is in an abusive relationship, the instinct might be to tell them what to do. But as we discussed, judgment and pressure often push survivors away. Instead, it’s about being a safe place, offering consistent support, and reminding them they’re not alone.
“Sometimes the most powerful thing you can say is, ‘I believe you.’”
Life After Abuse
Tamia and Stephanie are proof that healing is possible. They’ve built healthy relationships, redefined their worth, and found peace.
“Life after abuse is possible—and it can be beautiful.”
And that’s the message I want every woman reading this to take away. You can survive. You can heal. You can live a good, joy-filled life again.
If You Need Help
If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, please reach out:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline (U.S.): 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788
- Visit thehotline.org
To hear our full conversation and all the wisdom these women shared, listen to this week’s episode of Marriage, Motherhood & PTSD on your favorite podcast platform.
Be encouraged. Be empowered. And be blessed.