Episode 2- “Why didn’t you just leave?”

“Why didn’t you just leave?” It’s the question every survivor hears — the one that blames us instead of the abuser. In this episode, I take you inside the hospital rooms, the police stations, the fear of leaving, the retaliation after, and the reality survivors live with every day. Leaving isn’t simple. It isn’t safe. And it isn’t the end of the story.

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions of abuse, trauma, and mental health struggles that may be distressing or activating for some listeners. Please listen with care.

Resources for Support

Abuse doesn’t discriminate—and neither do the resources that can help. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out.

​National Domestic Violence Hotline (U.S.):

800-799-7233 | thehotline.org

(Free, confidential support for anyone in an abusive relationship—women, men, LGBTQIA+, teens, and more)

​RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network):

800-656-HOPE | rainn.org

(24/7 support for sexual assault survivors of all genders)

​Crisis Text Line:

Text HOME to 741741 (U.S.) for immediate, free support from trained crisis counselors

​1in6 (for male survivors of sexual trauma):

1in6.org

(Support, therapy, and group resources specifically for men)

​Male Survivor:

malesurvivor.org

(Education, peer support, and healing spaces for men who have experienced sexual abuse)

​BetterHelp or Open Path Collective:

Online, low-cost therapy options for all genders

​International Directory:

therapyroute.com or womensupportproject.co.uk

(Global support lists for emotional abuse, trauma, and domestic violence)