After 16 years of abuse my partner was arrested and removed from the family home with the help of The Elm Foundation. This occurred during COVID, which was already an isolating time. Although finally feeling safe I remember the house feeling vast and empty. I recall sitting on the hallway floor feeling incredibly vulnerable, not knowing what to do with myself. Having always being an avid reader since childhood, this dwindled during the final years of the relationship, when life became more about getting through each day. At that moment I decided to pick up a book again.
Throughout the chaos and upheaval of the police investigation and court proceedings I continued to pick up books. A particular favourite author of mine at the time was Lucy Worsley. These books reignited my passion and made me realise how much I’d missed the connection felt whilst reading a book. It took me to another place, another period of time in history and was fully immersive.
How did reading help?
Reading again became my security, my ‘safe space’. I found it fully absorbing, encompassing the use of all senses and developing my imagination. Not only did it provide an escape route from the reality of the daunting situation, but it also greatly reduced my level of stress and anxiety. After being diagnosed with PTSD following the years of abuse, I found books truly aided my ongoing recovery more than anything else. Providing calm and the opportunity to self-regulate.
I returned to reading with vigour. Reading book after book; focusing primarily on historical novels based on fact from the Tudor and Victorian era. I was able to recreate and visualise these periods in history in depth, feeling as though I’d been taken to another period of time and away from my situation.
A particular favourite I read was Lytton Strachey’s biography of Queen Victoria. The descriptive language used was truly powerful and emotive. I genuinely believe that books more than anything have played a fundamental part in my personal road to recovery; ‘healing through words’. Not only does it boost self-confidence and well-being, but it is also therapeutic. It has provided me with a confidence that was once lost as well as promoting conversations and debates amongst friends.
Reading is the most powerful and impactive resolution to the effects of abuse. Authors are able to bring stories to life, and provide a rich, detailed experience for readers. I now never leave the house without a book. It provides a sense of ‘completeness’ wherever I go, moving onto a new chapter in my life……
We would love to hear from you…
In 100 words or less please share with us what your favourite book has meant to you, and how did it help you? e: [email protected]
