Setting Boundaries: Empowering Yourself After Abuse - Root's Story

In this powerful episode of 7 on Sundays, hosts Dr. Chez Leeby and Stephanie Boye engage in a candid conversation with Root, a survivor of sexual trauma. Root shares her deeply personal story, shedding light on the complexities of abusive relationships and the journey towards healing.

This episode is essential for anyone looking to understand the dynamics of abusive relationships, particularly among young adults. Root’s bravery in sharing her story serves as a beacon of hope for others who may be experiencing similar situations. Listeners will gain valuable insights into:

• The significance of recognizing unhealthy patterns in relationships.

• The importance of seeking help and support from trusted individuals.

• How to reclaim one’s narrative after experiencing trauma.

Episode Discusses

• Understanding Boundaries: The discussion emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and recognizing one's worth in relationships.

• The Impact of Trauma: Root shares how trauma can manifest in various ways, affecting mental health and self-perception.

• Support Systems: The episode highlights the role of friends and family in recognizing red flags in relationships and providing support.

• Myths Around Sexual Relationships: The hosts encourage listeners to reflect on common myths surrounding consent and sexual behavior that are often perpetuated by societal norms.

Join us as we explore these critical topics with sensitivity and compassion, aiming to empower listeners to advocate for themselves and others.

 

RESOURCES

If you or a loved one are in an abusive relationship, please call your local police or any of the following...

 *988 the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

Call your local police or National Centers for Victims of Crime (NCVC) 1-800-FYI-CALL
if you suspect that you have been the victim of crimes 

The National Domestic Violence Hotline [phone].SAFE (7233) or 1-800-787-3224 

The National Dating Abuse Helpline 1-866-331-9474
A service of Love is Respect,  this national, 24-hour resource is specifically designed for teens and young adults. The Helpline is accessible by phone or online chat and offers real-time, one-on-one support from peer advocates trained to offer support, information, and advocacy to those involved in dating abuse relationships as well as concerned friends, parents, teachers, clergy, law enforcement, and service providers.

Love is Respect
A collaboration between Break the Cycle and the National Dating Abuse Helpline, this web resource provides  information and resources on dating violence and healthy dating attitudes and relationships for youth. The site includes an overview of the issue (e.g., early warning signs, types of abuse, the cycle of abuse), quizzes for teens to determine whether they are experiencing or inflicting abuse, a live chat feature that connects youth with a peer advocate 24/7, videos, a blog, and more. In addition to the live chat, Love is Respect connects youth to the National Dating Abuse Helpline at 1-866-331-9474 or 1-866-331-8453. Youth can also reach out for help by texting “loveis” to 22522.

 

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning

00:15 Setting Boundaries in Relationships

00:40 Welcome to 7 on Sundays

01:25 Introducing Root's Story

02:20 Root's First Relationship

03:11 The Abuse Unfolds

06:14 Grounding and Support

07:39 Reflecting on the Trauma

08:34 Understanding the Abuse

17:35 The Impact of Pornography

30:17 Root's Second Relationship

36:35 Understanding Deserved Love

37:29 Setting Boundaries and Self-Worth

38:03 Family Dynamics and Dysfunction

40:35 Breaking the Silence

41:49 The Importance of Therapy

45:49 Recognizing Unhealthy Relationships

01:02:43 Power Dynamics in Relationships

01:08:02 The Journey to Healing

01:10:43 Final Thoughts and Encouragement