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Surviving Abuse and Narcissistic Control: Mia J Hanks Shares Her Story Trigger Warning: Today's episode discusses Narcissitic Abuse, Domestic Abuse, and Intimate Partner Violence. In this inspiring and informative episode of Talks with Dr. Shafer, Dr Shafer welcomes Special Guest Mia J. Hanks, author and survivor of domestic abuse. Mia J Hanks shares her powerful story of survival from domestic abuse and narcissistic control, which she experienced for decades prior to leaving her abusive relationship. Through her memoir, 'Bride-made: A Memoir', Mia J Hanks explores the societal expectations placed on women, the complexities of staying in an abusive relationship for the sake of children, and the long journey to reclaiming her autonomy. Mia discusses the importance of recognizing the signs of narcissistic abuse, the role of therapy in her healing process, and the significance of finding a supportive community. She emphasizes the physical and emotional toll of living in constant stress and the bravery it takes to leave such relationships. Mia also highlights the challenges of being a faceless survivor, advocating for safety while sharing her story to help others. Takeaways: -Mia's book title 'Bridemaid' reflects societal expectations of women. -Staying in an abusive relationship for children can be harmful. -Recognizing narcissistic abuse is often a gradual process. -Financial dependency can trap individuals in abusive relationships. -Therapy can provide validation and support for survivors. -Chronic stress from abuse affects physical health. -Finding a supportive community is crucial for healing. -Self-trust is essential in recognizing unhealthy relationships. -Leaving an abusive relationship is a complex and lengthy process. -Survivors can share their stories anonymously for safety. Sound Bites: "I was still caught in the golden trap." "You don't want to think this person wants to hurt you." "Divorcing a narcissist is not like any other divorce." Resources: You are not alone. Help is available. National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233 Call 9-1-1 in the case of an Emergency in the United States. Get to know your Emergency number in your country if you are outside of the US, and call if you are in danger. Thank you to Mia J Hanks for being a Guest on the show. You can learn more about Mia J Hanks and purchase her book here: https://www.amazon.com/Bride-Made-Memoir-Mia-J-Hanks/dp/B0CVC322MF Dr Shafer Stedron, MD is a musician turned Neurologist, a mom, a Jay Shetty-Certified Life Coach, an Author, Publisher, and so much more. She is passionate about helping others reclaim their stories and build their most beautiful future, unlocking their fullest potential informed by her background in neurology, psychology, business and entertainment. Dr. Shafer's story is one of triumph, self-awareness, and tireless creation. As she has reclaimed her own story, rebuilding her life after difficult experiences, she launched We Don’t Tell Our Stories, an online community to help people suffering from Domestic Abuse and Intimate Partner Violence. Her love of writing inspired her to launch Little House of Dreams Publishing, a children’s literature publishing house focused on sharing the stories of children. Dr Shafer believes it is never too early to show young people how important their voice truly is, and the power they possess to create a better world. Connect with Dr. Shafer: https://drshaferstedronova.com/ To watch inspiring and informative Talks with Dr Shafer head to her YouTube Channel: / @talkswithdrshafer This episode does not offer individualized medical advice. Opinions discussed are for informational purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. Little House Of Dreams Entertainment, LLC, 2024. All Rights Reserved. Music Credit: Shafer Yost, Impulse