What Happens When Abuse STOPS For One Year

When abuse finally stops, the silence can feel louder than the pain. For the first time in a long time, you’re not bracing for impact — but peace doesn't always come rushing in. In this video, we explore what often happens one year after the abuse ends: the emotional waves, the triggers that still linger, and the powerful shifts that begin when your nervous system learns it’s safe again. Healing isn’t linear, and this year can be one of the hardest — but also one of the most revealing. If you've ever wondered why freedom doesn't always feel like relief, this one's for you. What has your first year of healing looked like?

Credits:
Researcher/Writer: Kelly Soong
Voice Over: @amandasilvera
Animation: Elle Baston
Director: Tai Khuong
Youtube Manager: Cindy Cheong
Assisted: Brisky Quach

Further readings:
Herman, J. L. (1992). Trauma and recovery: The aftermath of violence—from domestic abuse to political terror. Basic Books.

van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Viking.

Courtois, C. A., & Ford, J. D. (2013). Treating complex traumatic stress disorders in adults: Scientific foundations and therapeutic models. The Guilford Press.