Healing Milestones
1. Recognizing the Abuse
Realizing that what happened wasn’t normal, healthy, or deserved.
2. Leaving the Abusive Situation
Taking the brave step to physically and/or emotionally separate from the abuser.
3. Establishing Safety
Finding a safe environment — emotionally, physically, spiritually — where healing can begin.
4. Setting Boundaries
Learning to say no without guilt and protecting peace.
5. Rebuilding Self-Worth
Starting to see oneself as worthy of love, respect, and happiness again.
6. Processing Grief and Anger
Allowing space for mourning the relationship and facing hard emotions instead of burying them.
7. Seeking Support
Connecting with a counselor, support group, faith community, or trusted friends.
8. Reconnecting with God
Rediscovering spiritual intimacy and allowing God’s truth to replace the lies of abuse.
9. Forgiving Yourself
Releasing self-blame for “staying too long” or “missing the signs.”
10. Developing Healthy Relationships
Learning how safe, respectful, mutual relationships are built and maintained.
11. Trusting Yourself Again
Learning how safe, respectful, mutual relationships are built and maintained.
12. Finding Joy in Small Things
Noticing laughter, beauty, and hope returning to daily life.
13. Pursuing New Dreams
Rediscovering passions, goals, and a future apart from the past pain.
14. Sharing Your Story
Feeling strong enough to encourage others by sharing what you’ve overcome (only if and when ready).
15. Walking in Freedom
No longer feeling defined by the abuse — but by strength, hope, and purpose.