In a recent episode of the Dinners on Me podcast, actress and singer Mandy Moore, 39, looked back on her decision to marry musician Ryan Adams at the age of 24. Reflecting on her parents’ enduring relationship, Moore revealed that her parents’ separation influenced her to seek stability through marriage. However, her marriage to Adams, which began in 2009, ultimately ended in divorce in 2016.
Moore shared that her relationship with Adams was not the right fit. She described it as leaving her feeling hollow, empty, and isolated. Mandy said she felt compelled to “power everything down” at the time, seeking solace in what seemed like a quiet chapter of her life.
Since her divorce from Adams, Moore has found love and happiness with her current husband, musician Taylor Goldsmith. The couple married in 2018 and now share two sons, August “Gus” Harrison and Oscar “Ozzie” Bennett Goldsmith.
Looking back on her past experiences, Moore acknowledged feeling like a different person from the one who endured her first marriage. She described a journey of self-discovery and growth, expressing gratitude for the lessons learned.
This isn’t the first time Moore has opened up about her marriage to Adams. In a 2019 New York Times article, Moore, along with several other women, accused Adams of manipulative and controlling behavior. She described feeling psychologically abused and stifled in her music career during their time together.
Despite her challenges, Moore remained resilient and focused on her happiness and fulfillment. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, she reflected on her life’s unexpected turns. She also emphasized the importance of making difficult choices in pursuit of happiness.
Throughout her journey, Moore has embraced the stages of grief and growth, recognizing that even amidst pain, there is room for healing and progress. Her story is a testament to resilience and the power of self-discovery in navigating life’s challenges. If you have been in an abusive relationship, smile now since it’s over.
Here are some ways to get back your happiness after the end of an abusive relationship.
Acknowledge Your Feelings
Allow yourself to feel whatever emotions come up—sadness, anger, confusion, or relief. It’s okay to cry, scream, or journal about your feelings. Recognizing and accepting your emotions is an integral part of the healing process.
Reach Out for Support
Surround yourself with supportive friends, family members, or a therapist who can offer understanding, validation, and encouragement. Talking to someone who you can trust will help you feel less alone and provide a unique perspective.
Practice Self-Care
Take care of yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally. Make time for activities that give you joy and relaxation, such as walking, practicing yoga, or indulging in hobbies. Prioritize self well-being and treat yourself with compassion and kindness. You are special and deserve all the positivity in this world. Speak positive affirmations to keep your morale up.
Set Boundaries
Establish clear boundaries to protect yourself from further harm. This may involve cutting off contact with your abuser, blocking them on social media, or seeking legal protection if necessary. Trust your instincts and prioritize your safety above all else.
Educate Yourself
Learn about the dynamics of abuse and how it has affected you. Understanding the patterns of manipulation and control can help you break free from their grip. It will also empower you to make healthier choices in the future.
Focus on Healing
Engage in any activities that promote healing and self-discovery, such as therapy, support groups, or mindfulness practices. Explore new interests, rediscover old passions, and take small steps towards rebuilding your self-esteem and confidence.
Practice Forgiveness
Forgiveness doesn’t mean excusing or condoning the abuse—it’s about letting go of resentment and anger for your peace of mind. Forgiving yourself for staying in the relationship and forgiving your abuser can be a decisive step toward releasing emotional baggage. We can move forward only when we stop looking behind.
Take It One Day at a Time
Healing from an abusive relationship is a journey, and it’s okay to take things one day at a time. Be patient with yourself, celebrate your progress, and remember that healing is a slow process that takes time and effort. Don’t let anybody put you down because of what you have endured. Maintain your self-respect and let yourself completely heal.
Summing Up
Ending an abusive relationship can be a challenging and painful experience, but it’s the first step towards healing and reclaiming your life. If you’ve recently come out of such a situation, know that you’re not alone, and there are ways to heal and move forward.
Remember, you truly deserve to be treated with love, respect, and dignity. By taking these steps toward healing, you’re reclaiming your power and building a brighter future for yourself. Life is beautiful, so letting go of the negative vibes will bring back the smiles you crave.
Garima Bais, a content creator since 2015, delivers unmatched quality with a personal touch. She is an expert in niches like beauty, fashion, digital marketing, health, parenting, travel, and home improvement. An Extremely positive person, she wishes to extend a helping hand to people dealing with problems who have no one to share them with.
