CW: This episode contains descriptions of DV, SA, suicide, and attempted murder. The cycle of abuse involves four stages: tension building, an explosive incident of abuse, a reconciliation or honeymoon phase, and a calm period. It's a pattern that repeats, making it difficult for victims to leave due to intermittent periods of calm and promises of change. Recognizing this pattern is essential for breaking free from abusive relationships and seeking help. Seeking help is a vital step towards reclaiming control and building a life free from fear. Importantly, reaching out for support is not a sign of weakness, but a brave act of self-preservation. Friends, family, shelters, helplines, and professional organizations offer resources to aid victims in escaping the cycle of abuse. They provide emotional assistance, safety planning, legal guidance, and a path towards healing. Breaking the silence and seeking help can provide a lifeline towards a future marked by safety, empowerment, and renewed hope. No one deserves to endure abuse, and by seeking help, survivors take the first step towards reclaiming their lives. Gabrielle:  https://www.instagram.com/gahhbeegee/ https://www.instagram.com/gabrielleevephotog/ https://gabrielleevephotog.smugmug.com/ Resources & Help: https://www.joinonelove.org/get-help/ https://www.thehotline.org/ If you have a unique story you'd like to share on the podcast, fill out this form: https://forms.gle/ZiHgdoK4PLRAddiB9