Actress Abigail Breslin Opens Up About Past Abusive Relationship
In an Instagram post, the 26-year-old actress detailed her past physically and emotionally abusive relationship.
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Abigail Breslin recently opened up about her domestic violence experience.
In an Instagram post from Oct. 14, 2022, the Academy Award nominated actress revealed she “wanted to share a little bit of my story” for Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
“I was in a very abusive relationship for close to 2 years,” the Little Miss Sunshine star wrote, as reported by Vanity Fair. “It all started out perfectly. I was so in love. Unfortunately, my abuser took advantage of my innocence and naïveté and the relationship subsequently became violent. I was beaten on a regular basis, locked into rooms and forced to pretend everything was ok and normal while dealing with intense injuries… injuries most people didn't even see.”
Breslin said she would use concealer and foundation to hide bruises because she wanted to protect her abuser. “In some way, I still cared for this person,” she wrote.
As Page Six noted, the abuse of the Zombieland actress wasn’t just physical. It was emotional as well.
“The physical injuries were also accompanied by a plethora of put downs, shaming and harsh verbal abuse,” she wrote. “I felt so unworthy of anyone’s love. I felt ugly and hated. I felt like I deserved less than dirt. I was certain, there must be something inherently WRONG with ME.”
Breslin said it was her family and friends who ultimately helped her out of her abusive relationship, but she admits she still suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder from it.
“I still occasionally have nightmares, and certain things still do trigger me,” she wrote. “I’m healing.”
Breslin ended her post encouraging anyone who may be in an abusive relationship to let them know you can get out of it. “I know it seems impossible and terrifying, but you have survived so much and you CAN survive leaving if you have the right tools and support,” she wrote.
If you or someone you know is dealing with domestic violence or abuse from a romantic partner, you can visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website, call 1.800.799.SAFE, or text START to 88788 for help. Advocates are available 24/7 to help callers talk through their situation and connect them with local resources. There is no charge to reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline.