Former child star Abigail Breslin shares her experience with domestic violence

Warning: This story contains graphic content.

Actress Abigail Breslin has shared her past experiences with domestic violence, alleging she was the victim of violent abuse for two years.

In an Instagram post, the Little Miss Sunshine actress shared her story for Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

“As a DV survivor I felt compelled to write a little bit about my story. I was in a very abusive relationship for close to 2 years,” the 26-year-old wrote.

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Abigail Breslin,

Breslin said she was “so in love” with her abuser, but alleged he “took advantage of my innocence and naïveté and the relationship subsequently became violent”.

“I was beaten on a regular basis, locked into rooms and forced to pretend everything was ok and normal while dealing with intense injuries… injuries most people didn’t even see,” she wrote.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 16: Abigail Breslin attends the Environmental Media Association (EMA) Awards Gala at GEARBOX LA on October 16, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images)

“The physical injuries were also accompanied by a plethora of put downs, shaming and harsh verbal abuse,” she added.

“I felt so unworthy of anyone’s love. I felt ugly and hated. I felt like I deserved less than dirt. I was certain, there must be something inherently WRONG with ME.”

The former child actress shared that it was due to her support network that she was able to get out of the situation.

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“I am beyond thankful for the support of my family and friends who played and instrumental and invaluable role in helping me leave this horrible situation,” she wrote.

“I will forever be indebted to those closest to me for them not only assisting me but, BELIEVING me.”

Abigail Breslin, Ira Kunyansky

The Scream Queens actress also said that she is now in a happy and healthy relationship with her fiancé, Ira Kunyansky, and she is “still healing” from her complex post traumatic stress disorder.

“If you are in an abusive relation currently, you CAN get out of it. I know it seems impossible and terrifying, but you have survived so much and you CAN survive leaving if you have the right tools and support,” she encouraged.

Support is available from the National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).

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