Share Your Story to the Still Waters Rise Collective
Stories like this are shared to honor the truth and strength of women who have felt silenced, dismissed, or broken down by emotional abuse. If you’d like to share yours anonymously, click here to begin. All stories are shared with permission. Names, identifying details, and personal information have been removed or altered to protect the privacy of each contributor.
Are you currently in the relationship?
Yes
No, I've left
I'm planning to leave
It's complicated / I'm not sure
How long were you (or have you been) in the relationship?
Less than 1 year
1-3 years
4-6 years
7-10 years
Over 10 years
What types of emotional or verbal abuse have you experienced?
Criticism or name-calling
Silent treatment / stonewalling
Gaslighting (made to doubt your own reality)
Jealousy / possessiveness
Financial control
Social isolation (from family or friends)
Monitoring or controlling behavior (phone, location, social media)
Love bombing, followed by withdrawal
Threats or intimidation
Minimizing your needs or feelings
What do you want to share about your experience?
This can be a story, a moment, a pattern, a turning point. Whatever feels important to you.
What helped you cope during your experience?
Think of small or big things: friends, journaling, music, faith, routines, silence, therapy, hope… or anything else.
What do you wish someone had told you earlier?
This could be about red flags, trusting your gut, boundaries, self-worth, or anything you needed to hear.
What would you say to a woman who feels stuck, scared, or ashamed right now?
Your words might become someone else's lifeline.
In your own words, how are you rising?
Maybe it’s quiet. Maybe it’s bold. Maybe it’s still becoming. Describe what rising means to you in this season, in your story, in your strength.
Prefer to speak your story instead of writing it? You can upload a voice memo below or record it right here. No names. No pressure. Just your voice, in your own words. (We will never share your audio but we may transcribe your words to share anonymously).
Where are you in your healing journey? (Select the one that best fits today)
I’m just starting to realize something isn’t right
I’ve started seeking help or support
I’ve left but I’m struggling to heal
I’ve begun to rebuild
I feel stronger, but still healing
I’ve done deep healing and want to help others
I don’t know where I am
What would you be most interested in attending if it were offered? (Select your top 1–2)
In-person healing retreat
Online support circle or group
Workshops on boundaries, self-worth, etc.
1:1 coaching or mentorship
Creative expression retreat (journaling, art, movement, music)
Access to emergency resources and guidance
Other
Is it okay if we share parts of your story anonymously?
*
Yes
No
Upload your own voice memo from your phone or your story in your own words (docs, images, etc.)
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