Drugs can completely change a person. Ruby and her three children learned this through first-hand experience when Ruby’s husband of 10 years, Bryan became addicted to drugs and then became violent.
He physically abused Ruby in fits of rage. His personality changed so much, it caused her confusion and disbelief. She held out hope that he would change back to his normal self, but he didn’t.
"Part of the cycle of abuse is for abusers to promise not to repeat harmful behaviors (this can include physical abuse, stalking behaviors, verbal abuse, etc.). It is known as the 'honeymoon period,'" says Sheryl Christianson, senior program manager at My Sister's Place. "This may include being sober. However, substance abuse does not cause domestic violence, but the use of substances may lower inhibitions on the part of the abuser and may also prevent the victim from seeing the underlying patterns of abuse (or if the victim/survivor is using not being able to recognize the immediate dangers as quickly due to impairment)."
After months of abuse and the violence escalating, Ruby started fearing for her children's safety. She knew she had to get away from Bryan before it was too late. After visiting a friend, she used her friend’s computer to look for resources to help her escape her situation.
Escaping Domestic Violence
When Ruby had enough information, she called the 24-hour helpline 1-800-799-7739 for domestic violence shelters and discovered My Sisters' Place from a list of shelters that had a vacancy at that time.
At My Sisters' Place, Ruby and her children slept in their own room. They received food, hygiene supplies and other items. It was the first time in months they all felt safe.
Ruby worked with a case manager and started to put the pieces of her life back together. She was able to receive state assistance and put her kids in day care. This allowed her to attend workshops organized by Breaking Barriers. During the workshop she was able to update her resume and get job leads. It wasn’t long before she found a job and was able to afford a place on her own.
Get Help
Every nine seconds a woman in the United States is abused or beaten. One out of every four women will experience domestic violence during their lives. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse there is help available. Call My Sisters’ Place 24-hour hotline 480-821-1024 for assistance today.
