Ask Amanda

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  Ask Amanda: I Don't Want Another Relationship

  Some survivors make the conscious choice to be single for life after surviving domestic violence | Q: I’m just not going back out there. I guess that’s not a question ... read more

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  Ask Amanda: Should I Background Check My Date?

  Garbo is a survivor-founded organization that helps individuals see if someone has a history of harm | Q: I’m a female survivor of domestic violence who’s starting to ... read more

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  Ask Amanda: Reinventing Father's Day After Domestic Violence

  When holidays trigger traumatic memories, you can ignore the day or create something new | Q: My husband is a survivor of childhood domestic violence. Father’s Day is ... read more

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  Ask Amanda: Celebrating My Birthday is Triggering

  Usually happy days like one’s birthday can be triggering for those who’ve been through trauma or abuse, and but this mom deserves celebrating | Q: Am I the only surviv... read more

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  Ask Amanda: How Do I Make New Friends After Abuse?

  It can feel scary to trust anyone again after domestic violence | Q: I just escaped a four-year relationship with an abusive boyfriend. I was traumatized, but I’m begi... read more

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  Ask Amanda: Isn't Reactive Abuse Just Victim-Blaming?

  Why do I get called an abuser when I’m just trying to defend myself against him? | Q: My ex was abusive toward me for the whole three years we were together and one ni... read more

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  Ask Amanda: How Do I Explain Domestic Violence to My Kids?

  Survivor mom wants kids to learn empathy for survivors, watch for red flags in the future | Q: Hi, I'm in search of information to help my daughters and sons understan... read more

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  Ask Amanda: How Do I Talk to New Partner About Past Abuse?

  Starting a relationship after trauma might mean having some vulnerable conversations | Q: Should you tell a new partner you’ve been abused in the past? I’m always scar... read more

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  Ask Amanda: My Family Invites My Abusive Ex to Events

  How survivors can handle family members who are in denial about domestic violence | Q: I’m struggling with what to do — my family still insists on inviting my ex to fa... read more

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  Ask Amanda: Connecting with Kids After Trauma

  Family therapist recommends getting mom and kids into counseling if possible | Q: I got myself and my kids away from my abuser after two years. We’re all starting to h... read more

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  Ask Amanda: Can We Stop Gendering Kids Halloween Costumes?

  8 gender-neutral costume ideas that fight against sexist stereotypes | Q: Every Halloween, as a parent, I find myself frustrated comparing ‘girl’ and ‘boy’ costumes at... read more

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  Ask Amanda: Why Do I Miss My Abusive Ex?

  Survivors share advice on how they overcame a trauma-bond that once kept them trapped with an abuser | Q: My husband is a great manipulator. He abuses me and mentally ... read more

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  Ask Amanda: My Abusive Ex Doesn't Prioritize Our Daughter

  Survivor mom wonders if she should do what her family is encouraging, and cut off all contact | Q: I was [with an abusive partner] for seven years and left just under ... read more

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  Ask Amanda: Can a Judge Issue a Gag Order Against a Victim?

  A survivor is told she can no longer post on social media about the domestic violence charges against her ex-partner | Q: A judge issued a gag order against me from sp... read more

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  Ask Amanda: Using the Grey Rock Method to Avoid Abuse

  Choosing not to react can be a temporary solution to shutting down some types of abuse | Q: I’ve been dating someone I’d consider a narcissist for over a year. He’s ve... read more