RESOURCES:
Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-GET-SAFE (1-800-799-7233)
Leslie's Quick Start Guide: www.leslievernick.com/start
The Hidden Depths of Addiction
- Discovery of her husband's addiction
- Struggles with expectations of respect and family values, especially within the church setting
Facing Anger and Abuse
- Anger and threats escalate
- Irrational anger
- Psychological and physical toll of the marriage
The Impact on Children
- Tansil's fear and realization of the impact on her children
- Protective actions taken to shield her children from the abuse
Recognizing Red Flags
- Reflection on early warning signs before and soon after marriage
- Importance of identifying and not ignoring red flags in relationships
The Turning Point: Seeking Safety
- Seeing the truth
- Initial steps towards seeking help and legal separation
Legal Separation and Its Aftermath
- Hiring an attorney and filing for legal separation
- Emotional and practical challenges of separating from an abusive spouse
- Experiences with victim services and legal protection
Support Systems and Conquer Community
- Participation in Conquer and the support gained from the community
- Key lessons and validations received from fellow survivors
- Importance of staying anchored in reality and implementing safety plans
The Role of Faith and Church
- Challenges with pastoral support and their often inadequate response to abuse
- Importance of faith and prayer in Tansil's journey
- Positive and negative experiences with church leadership
Final Thoughts and Advice
- Encouragement to listeners to trust their gut instincts and prioritize safety
- Advice on not dismissing red flags and recognizing one's own worth
- Final reflections and call to action for women in similar situations to seek help and support
