My best friend was abused for last 10 years and I didn't know!

I want to share the story of one of my close friends. We met through our husbands but became great friends very soon. She called me her 'mini me'. We met often and celebrated all festivals together with our families. We've known them for 7 years and not even once I noticed anything was wrong until we got to know the couple got separated. This happened around the middle of last year.

The news is finally in the media with horrifying audio recordings (trigger warning) here. Her very moving victim statement after her ex got 15 days in prison for 10 yrs of torture(!) is here.

Lessons -
Domestic abuse can happen with anyone, it is not limited to a country or community
Abusers dont have horns and fangs, they are among us, they could be our friends and co workers
Look out for signs, keep asking your friends and co workers if all is ok, encourage them to open up
Mentally map things if you feel oppressed or bullied - is this a pattern of abuse
Abusers - you cant get away with it, there are consequences, and hefty ones for your family and your children
Speak up! Share your story. I am extremely proud of my friend Neha for sharing her ordeal and encouraging many others to open up and do the same.

#domesticabuse #speakup #domesticviolence