Life After is a blog about what happens after it all.
I'm an adult survivor of human trafficking trying to navigate a world that feels like an alternate reality. If my experiences sound familiar to you, you might also be experiencing trafficking or domestic violence. I didn't know what was going on, I would focus on the good parts and ignore the bad. It was easier for me not to acknowledge the situation. He was my best friend and it felt like a betrayal of our bond to think negatively of him or his actions. You know your situation best. If now isn't a time where you can get out, keep yourself safe until you can. When you're ready, this is a link to a list of global trafficking hotlines.
I'm choosing to use a pseudonym to protect my anonymity and myself. None of the names used in this blog will be the actual names of the people involved. I will try to do my best to be as honest in my portrayal of events, which means using language that may be triggering to those that have experienced abuse.
If you're not someone who has experienced something similar to what I've been through, I urge you to keep a compassionate mind. Most people have a singular view of what trafficking is, due in part to shows like Criminal Minds and Law and Order: SVU. The reality is much more nuanced than a stranger kidnapping a vulnerable woman alone at night. An estimated 35% of all victims are trafficked by someone they know, like a family member or close friend. Sometimes victims are able to maintain a facade of a regular life, as I was. Someone you currently know could be experiencing this.