Domestic violence is more complicated than many people realize.
It isnt limited to physical abuse, and it can occur in many different types of relationships.
The intent is to maintain power and control over the person.
When celebrities speak out about domestic violence, it’s a reminder that this form of abuse can happen to anyone.
In fact, Mendez explains, many victims blame themselves for the abuse.
Not to mention, its proof that domestic violence can truly happen to anyone.
The fact that they are visible people means they command a voice, Mendez says.
When celebrities tell a story, peopledolisten.
When they talk, it opens the door to disclose these things.
I felt caged by my childhood, the singer toldW Magazinein 2011.
And unsafe: Bad things happened in my home; there was violence.
Aguileralater saidthat her father was physically and emotionally abusive to her throughout her childhood.
I know my bigger purpose is to empower, to encourage other people to find their voice."
She also credited yoga for helping her heal from her traumatic childhood.
Dwayne Haskins
Although most victims of domestic violence are women, men can experience it, too.
This rings true for Pittsburgh Steelers quarterbackDwayne Haskins.
Police were called to their hotel around 2:30 a.m. PDT, and Haskins was taken to the hospital.
Gondrezick-Haskins faces a felony charge of battery and domestic violence resulting in bodily harm.
The pair remain together,according to Haskinss Instagram.
Domestic violence can happen to anyone, including celebrities, said Berry.
Ive struggled with self-worth problems.
The scars also linger for Berrys mother.
Thats what connects me to this organization,said Berryat a 2015 event held to benefit the Jenesse Center.
I have an understanding, a knowing.
I feel like I have something that I can impart to these women.
It seems like Ive overcome it, but I really havent.
In the quiet of my mind, I still struggle.
So, while Im helping these women, Im helping myself through it, too.
And thats largely why Im here.
But you might not have known thatCharlize Theronwitnessed horrific episodes of domestic violence during her childhood in South Africa.
In aninterview with Diane Sawyer on ABC’sPrimetime Thursday,Theron talked about those events.
Her father, Charles, was an abusive alcoholic.
One night, he returned home after drinking and began shooting into the house.
Therons mother, Gerda, shot back and killed him.
In court, the shooting was ruled an act of self-defense, and Therons mother was never charged.
Today, she is aMessenger of Peacefor the United Nations.
He was also ordered via restraining order to stay away from Rihanna.
I was that girl, said Rihanna in aNovember 2015 story inVanity Fair.
She walked away from the relationship for good in 2013.
Still, her emotional scars lingered.
In 2015, Rihanna toldVanity Fair, Im always concerned about whether people have good or bad intentions.
And his grandmother bathed him in ammonia to rid him of his allergies.
Perry toldPeoplethat the most important lesson he learned was to forgive those who hurt him.
To those of you who have, welcome to life, he said.
Her success belies adaunting past as a teenager and young adult, Hernandez-Castillos then-boyfriend abused her physically and emotionally.
These days, she balances her acting career with a ministry she began with her husband, Jose.
She is a certified youth chaplain who visits youth facilities in New York City.
I realize that all of these kids have powerful stories to tell.
I want them to know that their story can be powerful help to others.
But in real life, shes a woman who lived with domestic violence for most of her life.
My mother was trying to scream, but she couldnt get anything out.
It was terrifying to see that as a little girl, Morgan told Winfrey.
Morgans memoir about her experiences,The Monkey on My Back, was published in June 2015.
Being around that subject matter every day seeps into my consciousness,she toldPeoplemagazine in March 2015.
To date, more than 75 celebrities, athletes, and public figures have participated in the campaign.
How to Get Help for Yourself or Someone You Know
Additional reporting byCelia ShatzmanandChristina Vogt.
She previously taught and mentored medical trainees at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine.
Young graduated magna cum laude fromGeorgetown University with a bachelor of science degree in neurobiology and theology.
During her psychiatry training, Young sought additional training in womens mental health and cognitive behavioral therapy.
She was formerly Preventions alternative medicine editor and rejoined the magazine in 2012 as a contributing editor.
Her latest book, No More Pills, was published in May 2015.
She has appeared as an expert commentator on numerous national television and radio programs.
Previously, they lived in Rome and Orvieto, Italy, and Brooklyn, New York.
