They walk the halls like you and I. You’ve probably passed them, maybe you’ve even said “hello.” It never crosses your mind that they have their own life, their own thoughts, their own history, fears and secrets.

You never think abuse will be close to home, but it is, and it’s so much closer than you think. And you may have wondered why, because every day you see them wearing black.

“I wear black for the people who are in the places I used to be in,”  one student, who wished to remain anonymous, said. “I wear black for those who are unable to leave their abusive homes.”

Abuse is more than scars, bruises and marks. It’s not always seen. You may never even know it’s there.

“I wear black because I just hope if I could get through to anyone, that it raises something,” he said. “To be able to say something so people understand that just because someone doesn’t show up with bruises on the outside doesn’t mean they don’t have scars or wounds on the inside.”

Help isn’t far, and it’s easier to access than you think. Just because abuse is a familiar occurrence, doesn’t mean we have to ignore it.  

 “For those who are unable to get out, hold on, hold on,” he said. “There are places where you can get help. Hold on, and try to get through. Because there is a heaven somewhere out there waiting for you.”

If you or someone you know needs help with an abusive situation, go to www.psychcentral.com. This website can be incredibly beneficial in many ways for victims of abuse. You can also report abuse to a school counselor, principal, teacher or nurse.

To contact this writer, e-mail [email protected]