Building the Right Support Team Along Your Healing Journey

By Christine Murray

Along your journey of healing from abuse, carefully consider the people you allow into your inner circle. Building a strong support network can be challenging, especially if you've experienced isolation as a result of abuse tactics that your abuser used. As much as possible, surround yourself with positive influences and limit the negative impact of unsupportive people.

In today's post, I’ll share some suggestions for how to build the right team of support around you during your healing journey.

Reflect on Your Current Support Network: Give some thought to the people currently in your life who offer support, including friends, family, acquaintances, and professionals such as counselors or legal advisors. Evaluate whether your current network meets your needs and identify any gaps in the level and types of support you’d like to have, as well as make note of any relationships that may be detrimental to your healing journey.

If Possible, Rebuild Damaged Connections: If it feels healthy and safe to do so, consider reaching out to repair relationships that may have been strained or severed due to the dynamics of abuse. Understand that not everyone may be open to reconciliation, and trust that anyone who isn’t open to rebuilding a relationship is not meant to be part of your journey, at least at this time.

Seek New Sources of Support: Be intentional about expanding your support network by seeking out new connections and resources. This may include attending support groups, joining social media communities for survivors, or building new friendships based on shared interests or beliefs, such as a hobby or within a spiritual or religious community. Remember that even a small, solid group of supporters can be invaluable to your healing process.

Consider Professional Support: If possible, seek support from trained professionals, such as counselors or support group facilitators, especially if your informal supporters are limited right now. Professional support can offer individualized guidance and additional resources that can help meet your unique needs.

Exercise Caution in Sharing Your Story: Be mindful of who you trust with your most personal thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Make note of any hurtful or unsupportive behavior from the people in your life. Take time to share your story with trusted individuals, and be prepared to set boundaries or distance yourself from anyone who violates your trust.

Set Boundaries and Limit Negative Influences: Establish clear boundaries with individuals who detract from your healing journey, and consider reducing or cutting off contact if necessary. While ending relationships can be painful, it may be necessary at times if you know that someone doesn’t have your best interest at heart. Prioritizing your well-being is essential for progress in your healing journey.

Overall building the right support team is a really important aspect of your healing journey. Take time to nurture healthy relationships and seek out supporters who will empower and uplift you. Remember: You are deserving of compassionate, supportive individuals in your corner as you navigate your healing journey.