Women fleeing domestic abuse take so many brave steps during their journey to safety.

Often, their abusers have conditioned them to believe they are worthless and alone…

Asking for help is the first brave, life-changing action women take, and the Women’s Shelter is there to support them, 24/7, from that moment forward.

We know, all too well, that long after a woman has left that unsafe environment, found a new home, made new friends, perhaps settled their children in a new school, there’s more work to do.

Our wrap-around support network provides a safety net, no matter where women are in their journey, and this includes directing women to resources that will aid the healing process.

Here are some books about abuse we recommend to help with the healing

Our Counsellors and Outreach Workers are trained to guide women and their families through their transition and remain available to women whenever they’re needed.

We also recommend these helpful books about abuse – ways to survive and overcome the trauma of their violent past.

They will be helpful, not only for victims of abuse, but the friends and family surrounding and supporting the victim and their children.

Most of these books are available at the Okanagan Regional Library, and can also be found on Amazon and Indigo…

1. The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You’re Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are (Brené Brown)

It’s common to struggle with your sense of self-worth after living in an abusive relationship. The book explores these feelings of shame and inadequacy, giving readers an opportunity to reimagine their vulnerabilities and find their inner strengths.

2. Why Does He Do That?: Inside the Minds of Angry and Controlling Men (Lundy Bancroft)

Coping with your past in an abusive relationship includes understanding the dynamics of the abuse: why it happened, why your abuser didn’t change, and why it isn’t your fault. This book will guide you through that conversation.

3. When Dad Hurts Mom: Helping Your Children Heal the Wounds of Witnessing Abuse (Lundy Bancroft)

Ensuring her children are healing is a priority for mothers in the wake of escaping domestic violence. Readers will find advice on ways to talk with their kids about abuse, deal with the separation, and rebuild a life together.

Extended family will also find this book helpful as they support their grandchildren, nieces, or nephews during times of transition.

4. Codependent No More: How to Stop Controlling Others and Start Caring for Yourself (Melody Beattie)

Abusive relationships are often the result of codependent relationships. It’s helpful to examine the dynamics of codependence and avoid escaping one abusive relationship only to find yourself in another one.

5. Healing the Trauma of Domestic Violence: A Workbook for Women – New Harbinger Self-Help Workbook (Mari McCaig & Edward S. Kubany)

Long after escaping an abusive relationship the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can persist. This workbook is full of trauma recovery techniques to help cope with the aftermath of abuse.

Readers will find exercises for breaking down negative thoughts, dispelling feelings of helplessness, and creating a happier, healthier life.

These books about abuse should help women – and their support network – better understand the impact of domestic violence on women and their children. There are many more…

Remember, nobody deserves to endure domestic abuse.

If you’re going through it, or know someone who is, please reach out to us. If you’re unsure about what domestic abuse looks like in a home, read this article for an explanation.

Physical abuse is just one element of an unhealthy relationship…it can include emotional and financial manipulation, too.

Would you like to help us help women and their children here in the community? You can make a donation or volunteer. It all makes a difference to those who are suffering at the hands of an abuser.

Did you find this article helpful? Here are three more:

What Is The Definition Of Domestic Abuse?
How Does The Law Handle Domestic Abuse In Canada?
Why Victims Of Abuse Feel Guilty: The Self-Esteem Link