Lived Experiences
Here you will find our collection of lived experiences, submitted by survivors of intimate partner and gender-based violence.
PLEASE READ WITH CARE. Many of these stories include descriptions of assault and violence.
“Very often when we hear the word ‘abuse’, we think of physical abuse. I know I thought this way until my experience.”
“My experience has shaped me into the ambitious, driven and passionate person that I am today.”
The Importance of Sharing
Lived Experiences
Sharing lived experiences helps others feel less alone, challenges stigma, and guides safer, better services grounded in what people actually live through every day. Stories like these inform change.
“Sharing my experience now helps me connect with others, showing that healing and understanding are possible even after trauma.”
“Leaving was difficult, but through time, support, and rebuilding my self-worth, I was able to find my spark again and rediscover what a healthy relationship feels like.”
Everything You Need to Know About Sharing Your Story
Mhaven treats every story with care, where your safety and well-being always come first.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us, and a member of our team will be in touch with you shortly.
You can share any story about your personal experience with intimate partner or gender-based violence. These can include survivor stories as well as stories from those who have used violence in the past and have changed their behaviour.
Complete the form below and include an upload of a Word or Google Doc of your story. Most people choose to tell their story in the form of a short essay or article, but if you have a poem or other creative work, we welcome these too.
If you prefer to tell your story in person, please get in touch with us, and we can help you identify a group or event where you can speak.
We respect your story and your privacy. If you have any concerns about your safety or about being identified through your story, we strongly encourage you to change the names of people and places to obscure your identity. Also, we ask that you refrain from telling other people’s stories to ensure someone else’s safety and privacy are not compromised.
Mhaven treats every story with care. We remove names and other identifying details wherever possible, store information securely, and follow your choices about how your story is used. If you change your mind after submitting your story, you can contact us to ensure your story is edited or removed. Your safety comes first. Always.