In the news:  Christina Milian, singer/songwriter and actress, recently shared her experience with domestic violence (DV) on social media sites and through e-news sources. One source that stands out is the Yahoo!Health article, Christina Milian Opens Up About Past Abusive Relationship, written by Tanya Edwards. The article does a good job of mentioning various signs of abuse like kicking and punching, name calling, making threats with weapons and isolating an individual from family/friends or other support systems.

Before moving forward, to Christina Milian and all other DV and/or sexual assault victims and survivors:

“I’m sorry for your experience, it wasn’t your fault…I hope you’re able to heal and find peace.”

There’s more that can be said, but not much I need to add because Christina did a wonderful job painting the picture for us…

The only reminders I can offer:

• Victims stay for a number of reasons, so please don’t judge them!

• Life and death decisions are constantly being made, even when it appears that it’s safe to leave. (The most dangerous time and likelihood that someone might be killed is when they try to leave.)

• There’s an old saying; when your hand’s in the lion’s mouth, work easy. Most victims/survivors know the danger they’re in. They may not tell you, but they also know what might happen if they try to leave. If you want ideas on how to help victims/survivors, click here to read about safety planning.

Photo:  LOS ANGELES, CA – JANUARY 6, 2015: Christina Milian at the premiere of Fox’s new TV series Empire at the Cinerama Dome, Hollywood. © Jaguarps | Dreamstime.com