Forced Isolation

MJ: If a situation arises where a woman is forced into isolation, what can you share as a means of coping mechanisms that are, at the same time, not harmful for her while she is experiencing the isolation?

Percell: Make your mental and physical health your #1 priority. Take care of you; someone must! Be vigilant of falling into low self-esteem issues.

If you are still in the relationship, communicate in whatever way/s possible. If telling the abuser that you are unhappy with the treatment is impractical or impossible, write a letter, have a loved one do it, etc. Communicate.

Place the blame where it belongs. If you have done something to warrant being isolated, own up to it and amend the behavior. If not, do not blame yourself. Again, this is looking out for your self-esteem and forever creating positive sponsoring thoughts.

Realize that relationships are made up of two imperfect persons accepting the imperfections in each other and building a life together with unconditional expectations. You are not a fixer; it is not your job to correct the abusing behavior.

Do not Self-Isolate. Find and build a support network. Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or a counselor.

Create an Exit Plan. Whether it is during the adversity or during the recovery, do not sit in a self-imposed sequestry (sequestration) or exile. Consistently seek and plan a way out.