If someone is being abused by their partner, wouldn't leaving the relationship be the easiest solution? This is a question that we hear frequently as a domestic violence agency. However, it's based on the assumption that it is easy to leave an abusive relationship and that leaving will automatically make the victim safer.

Robin Hughes, manager of JBWS' Crisis Response Team, joins this episode of Unsilenced: Real Conversations About Abuse to talk about why it isn't that easy to "just leave" a relationship and how leaving is actually the most dangerous time in a victims life.

Content:

(0:00 ) Introduction

(1:30 ) Why Won't Victims Just Leave

(4:12 ) Shame and Self Blame

(6:04 ) They Love Their Partner

(8:08 ) Why Do Victims Go Back?

(13:51 ) Forcing Someone to Leave Won't Work

(21:55 ) Factors That Make Leaving Difficult

(25:43 ) A Victims' Life Has to Change

(28:14 ) Why Staying Isn't Always Best for the Kids

(35:41 ) Leaving is the Most Dangerous Time

(37:38 ) Final Thoughts

(41:32 ) About JBWS & Resources

About JBWS, Services, and Resources:

If you are in an unhealthy relationship and live or work in Morris County, New Jersey then JBWS is here for you. Call our 24-Hour Helpline at 1.877.782.2873. Deaf/Hard of Hearing: Text (973) 314-4192.

If you do not live or work in Morris County but are experiencing abuse, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1.800.799.SAFE (7233) or visit https://www.thehotline.org/ for live chat and text options.

If you recognize any abusive or controlling behaviors in yourself, then JBWS can help: jbws.org/jcnv or 973-539-7801

Unsilenced: Real Conversations About Abuse is produced by JBWS, a domestic violence agency serving Morris County, New Jersey. If you're interested in learning more about JBWS, please visit jbws.org.

Intro and outro music created by Billy Morris!