Domestic Abuse Awareness Month: Join the Free Webinar on October 28th at 11 AM EDT!

Domestic Abuse Awareness Month is a time to shine a light on a pervasive issue that affects countless individuals across the world. It’s not just about awareness—it’s about breaking the silence, challenging the stigma, and offering hope to survivors. Domestic violence isn’t confined to physical bruises; it includes emotional manipulation, psychological trauma, financial control, and other forms of abuse that can leave deep, unseen scars. Recognizing and addressing these issues is crucial because, for many, silence is a prison. It keeps them trapped in cycles of shame, fear, and isolation, making it difficult to seek help or speak out.

This October, the STAR Network invites you to take a stand and become part of a community that supports healing and empowerment. The STAR Network—Survivor of Toxic Abusive Relationships—is dedicated to transforming the lives of those affected by domestic violence and abuse. With a mission to help individuals move from victimhood to resilience, STAR Network provides the tools and community support necessary to rebuild lives shattered by trauma.

What Does STAR Stand For?

The STAR Network is a lifeline for many who have suffered from toxic and abusive relationships. “STAR” represents a significant shift in identity: You Are Not a Victim! You’re a STAR! This transformation acknowledges that moving from victim to survivor is a courageous journey, and STAR Network is here to support every step of that process.

The STAR emblem symbolizes a broken heart, mended by golden stitches. These stitches are a tribute to the process of healing and self-discovery that begins once we decide to take charge of our recovery from Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) and other trauma-related conditions. Rebuilding a sense of self after abuse means more than just recovery—it involves reparenting ourselves, developing emotional regulation skills, and embracing healthier connections with a chosen family of support.

Joining TAR Anon™ meetings through STAR Network marks a significant milestone for many individuals. It’s a declaration of survival and a commitment to prioritizing their healing journey. In this community, survivors find validation, empathy, and empowerment, reminding them that while their past may have been scarred, they possess the strength to heal and rebuild.

Breaking the Stigma: Why Domestic Abuse Awareness Matters

Domestic abuse thrives in darkness. Stigma and shame keep many victims silent, allowing abuse to continue unchallenged. Domestic Abuse Awareness Month aims to change that by encouraging open conversations, breaking down stereotypes, and recognizing that abuse can affect anyone, regardless of gender, socioeconomic background, or culture.

For many, the hardest step is the first one—admitting they need help. Fear of judgment or disbelief, especially when it comes to non-physical forms of abuse, can be overwhelming. This month, we must work together to create an environment where survivors feel safe to speak out without fear of being blamed, shamed, or disbelieved.

At STAR Network, we understand that healing from domestic abuse is not a linear process. It’s okay to have setbacks. It’s okay to need help. The important thing is to recognize that recovery is possible, and there is a supportive community ready to walk this path with you.

Scars to STARs Webinar Series: A Tribute to Resilience and Recovery

As part of Domestic Abuse Awareness Month, STAR Network is hosting a powerful event—the “Scars to STARs” Webinar Series, a global tribute to survivors. On October 28th at 11 AM EDT, Dr. Jamie will lead a roundtable discussion with three inspiring leaders who have turned their struggles with domestic violence into stories of resilience and healing.

This free webinar will feature:

• Dr. Nadine Macaluso, who bravely shares her experience of surviving an eight-year marriage to Jordan Belfort, known as the “Wolf of Wall Street.” Her journey from a life filled with infidelity, addiction, and narcissistic abuse to reclaiming her own power offers hope to those experiencing similar struggles.
• Lorilee Binstock, host of the A Trauma Survivor Thrivers Podcast, who opens up about her recovery from childhood sexual abuse. After keeping the trauma secret for more than two decades, she found the courage to seek help and emerged as a thriving survivor, using her voice to offer hope and insights to others.
• Nia Renee, a certified relationship coach and motivational speaker, who founded “How to Love a Battered Woman” in 2018. She draws from her own experience of surviving years of abuse to empower others with her unique blend of personal resilience and life coaching expertise.

This roundtable will address the multicultural dimensions of domestic violence and delve into understanding trauma bonds, navigating toxic relationships, and breaking free from cycles of abuse. The discussions aim to empower attendees to go from feeling victimized to embracing their STAR identity.

Empowering Words from STAR Network’s Leadership

Dr. Jamie, Founder and Executive Director of STAR Network, shares, “Domestic abuse steals more than just safety—it robs individuals of their voice, their confidence, and their sense of self-worth. Our mission at STAR Network is to guide survivors back to the truth that they are not defined by what happened to them. They are defined by the strength it takes to heal and rise again. Every scar tells a story of resilience, and every step towards healing turns those scars into the stars that guide us forward.”

Milena “Mila” Stankovic, Co-Founder and Creative Director of STAR Network, who is a fellow STAR herself, emphasizes the global and multicultural impact of domestic abuse. She says, “This issue knows no borders and affects people from all walks of life. That’s why we are launching this webinar free of charge and bringing together voices from different backgrounds. Healing belongs to everyone, and our goal is to make that journey accessible, so no one feels they have to walk it alone.”

How STAR Network is Making a Difference

STAR Network isn’t just a non-profit; it’s a movement. By collaborating with organizations like the CPTSD Foundation, STAR Network aims to protect recovery efforts, raise awareness, and provide resources for individuals affected by domestic abuse and toxic relationships. The initiatives launched this month include increased outreach through social media campaigns, live expert-led video content, and events like the upcoming Scars to STARs Webinar. The goal is to continue building a safe space where survivors can find solidarity, support, and the resources they need to transform their lives.

Your Role in Ending Domestic Abuse

Ending domestic abuse starts with awareness but requires action. Here’s how you can help:

• Educate Yourself and Others: Understand the signs of domestic abuse and the different forms it can take. Share this knowledge to break down the myths and misconceptions that perpetuate stigma.
• Support Survivors: Listen without judgment and offer help if you see someone struggling. Sometimes, a listening ear is the first step toward breaking the silence.
• Participate in Events: Attend awareness events, like the Scars to STARs webinar, to show support for survivors and learn how you can make a difference.
• Spread the Word: Share resources and information about STAR Network and similar organizations dedicated to helping survivors heal.

Stay Gold, STAR – Stay Gold!

As we symbolically say to each other every day on this healing journey: Stay Gold, STAR, Stay Gold! The path from scars to being a STAR isn’t easy, but it’s possible. It’s about reclaiming your life, rediscovering your authenticity, and choosing to heal, one step at a time. You are not alone—there’s a whole community ready to walk with you.

Join STAR Network at www.starnetwork.org to find the vital healing, strength, and resilience you need to move forward. Let’s work together to turn the tide on domestic abuse and empower every survivor to embrace their STAR identity.

Register now for the October 28th free webinar, and take the next step in your healing journey. Together, we can turn scars into stars.