A FAITH outreach worker once sat down with me and began asking about my mental health. I responded casually, saying I was fine, and that life was as good as it could be, just so I could get back to work. But they kept asking questions. As I answered, I began to realize that the pain, the sleepless nights—they had a name. It wasn’t just personal; it was real, and it mattered. Through their guidance, I attended healing sessions. Slowly, I began to see the invisible chains I had been living with. I feel much better now.

I also joined FAITH’s legal literacy workshop. I had never even heard the term ‘economic violence,’ but I soon realized I was living it. My partner controlled everything—my earnings, my choices, my life. Through the workshop, I met others with similar experiences, found support, and gained the courage to take legal action. Walking away from him was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but it was also the first step toward reclaiming my life. The organization also provided emergency shelter for me and my children for a couple of nights.

Another battle awaited me—I had no citizenship, no legal identity. I understood how crucial it was. Fortunately, I also managed to obtain my citizenship card. I didn’t just learn about mental health or violence. I got my dignity, my rights, and my future back. Today, I stand stronger—not just as a survivor, but as someone who has reclaim her life back.