Trigger warning: This episode includes discussions of abuse, child trauma, and femicide. Helplines and resources are linked below.
Carla is discussing the complexities of abusive relationships, exploring how abusive behaviours often go unnoticed and how we can begin to recognise them in our own lives.
She reflects on the signs of abuse and how we can break free from these destructive patterns.
Timestamps:
00:00 Heatwave and festival updates
02:55 Trigger warning and what to expect in this episode
03:14 How to fully relax during sex and why slowing down matters
07:11 The rush to soothe instead of feel emotions
13:37 Why we miss red flags and struggle to identify abuse
15:40 Listening to the body instead of intellectualising pain
16:40 Ireland’s history of violence, religion, and suffering
19:43 Carla’s memories of gender roles and fear in the family home
22:31 Recognising subtle abusive behaviours in ourselves and others
26:00 The fawn response, conflict avoidance, and healing patterns
29:00 Learned helplessness and why people stay
31:00 Support resources
Ireland Support Services
Women’s AidSupports women affected by domestic abuse. 24hr Helpline: 1800 341 900www.womensaid.ie
Rape Crisis HelpFor anyone affected by sexual violence.National Helpline: 1800 77 8888
www.rapecrisishelp.ie
Childline (ISPCC)For young people up to age 18.
Freephone: 1800 66 66 66
www.childline.ie
UK Support Services
RefugeFor women and children experiencing domestic violence.24hr Helpline: 0808 2000 247 www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk
Women’s Aid UKInformation, support, and resources for women. www.womensaid.org.uk
Rape Crisis England & WalesSupport for survivors of sexual violence.
Helpline: 0808 500 2222
NSPCCProtecting children from abuse.
Helpline: 0808 800 5000
www.nspcc.org.uk