Just as there are wounds too deep to heal without stitches and proper aftercare, the damage wrought by abuse cannot be ignored and must be tended to with caution and caring. And there is no way to expect someone to figure out how to heal herself and those she loves on her own. But with the right team of support, impossibly high mountains seem that much more realistic to climb.
For the past three years, it has just been Dasi*, a 17 year-old girl, and her mother. Dasi’s father is no longer in the picture as he was abusive to both his wife and child. The mom, Leah*, was fortunately able to gain full custody. In recent months, Dasi had been struggling in school academically and socially and lashing out in anger and frustration at her mother. When Leah called Amudim, she was at a loss of what to do and needed guidance and support. Dasi has consistently refused to go to therapy to address the trauma of her childhood abuse, and her behavior had reached a boiling point.
Our case manager spoke extensively with Leah about Dasi’s history; and together, they determined that a hospital-based setting would be the best immediate treatment option, though that was difficult for Leah to hear. She needed a large dose of empathy and compassion to understand that none of what was happening to Dasi was her fault, and that an inpatient setting would be optimal for getting her daughter the help she needed. The case manager also recommended a therapist for Leah so that she could have a safe place to process her own trauma and find the tools to heal and move forward.
Dasi is currently in the middle of treatment; her doctors and social worker are recommending that Dasi attend a therapeutic high school after her release. Our case manager is working with Leah, the education board, and reaching out to other contacts to find the best option out there for Dasi. While this is still going to be a difficult road for Leah and her daughter, we will be there for them every step of the way; with time and the right support, they will hopefully find the strength needed to forge a new future.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Amudim is just a phone call away and here to help.
*Names and details have been changed for privacy purposes
Each week, Amudim fields calls covering a wide range of crises and addressing various human concerns, including addiction, depression, abuse, health and domestic emergencies and many others. We track the calls and breakdown of issues for many reasons, foremost of which is to consistently improve and strengthen our knowledge and ability to address community’s needs.
It’s in the pause. The hesitation. The fake smile.
We hear what you’re not saying.
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