It's Time To Step Up: Seven Steps To Freedom From Abuse

Why did I live that way for so many years? Why did I stay? Is it possible to live a life free from abuse? As I struggled with the questions around my experiences and so many other stories I heard and studied, I came across the real reason why I stayed so long. It wasn't for the kids, it wasn't trauma bonding or Stockholm syndrome, it wasn't fear of the unknown and it wasn't lack of money or resources. I didn't stay because I was afraid of being killed if I left, or because I had nowhere to go. I didn't stay because of guilt or shame. It was all of those reason, but it wasn't really any of those reasons. I finally understand the real reason why I stayed.