by Anonymous Survivor | Nov 1, 2025 | Leaving
Three years ago, I walked away from a relationship that had slowly drained the life out of me. It wasn’t the kind of abuse people can easily see. There were no bruises or broken bones. But there was a steady breaking of the spirit — the kind that happens when you’re...
by Anonymous Survivor | Nov 1, 2025 | Leaving
The early months after leaving were difficult. I second-guessed myself, replayed every memory, and wondered if I’d imagined it all. But over time, the silence that used to feel heavy began to feel peaceful. I could finally hear my own thoughts again. I started...
by Anonymous Survivor | Nov 1, 2025 | Leaving
There are small freedoms that still make me smile. I can read for hours without being scolded. I can listen to Les Misérables as many times as I want (and I do). I can eat what I like, pray without manipulation, and live without walking on eggshells. These may sound...
by Anonymous Survivor | Nov 1, 2025 | Leaving
My life now isn’t perfect, but it’s peaceful, and that’s everything. If you’re still in a situation where you feel small, unheard, or unsafe, please know this: there is hope. And if you’re someone who supports organizations like Reach Out Speak Out — thank you. You...
by Jan Porter | Oct 1, 2025 | Holidays
The Holidays Aren’t Always Happy: What to Know, Watch For, and How to Help For many, the holidays bring images of warm meals, family traditions, and festive lights. But for others, this season can be one of the most difficult times of the year. Stress, financial...
by Jan Porter | Oct 1, 2025 | Holidays
Warning Signs in Children Children often express what they’re feeling through behavior. Some signs that a child may be struggling include:Sudden changes in mood or withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed.Trouble sleeping, nightmares, or bed-wetting. Becoming...
by Jan Porter | Oct 1, 2025 | Holidays
Safe Ways to Seek Help If you or someone you know is in an unsafe situation this holiday season:Have a safety plan: Identify a safe place to go and someone you can call.Use code words: Establish a simple phrase children can use to signal they feel unsafe.Reach out for...
by Jan Porter | Oct 1, 2025 | Holidays
You’re Not Alone The holidays may feel overwhelming, but help is always available. At ROSO, we stand beside survivors and their children—through the holidays and beyond. If you’re reading this and need support, please reach out, speak out. Safety and healing are...
by Paul Porter | Aug 1, 2025 | Domestic Violence
How does anger and domestic violence become intertwined? All of us have moments of anger. It can be anything from someone cutting you off in traffic to trying to communicate to a telephone customer service representative what your problem is and becoming frustrated...
by Paul Porter | Aug 1, 2025 | Domestic Violence
What do you feel when anger builds up inside of you? Adrenaline begins to build up, your body becomes tense, facial expressions change, and you feel a rush of emotion building. As you try and hold it back, until you lose the battle and you reach your so-called...
