When the language we use is unclear, it’s easy for stigma and confusion to cloud our perspectives. Those struggling might second-guess themselves or suffer in silence because they’re not sure their problem “qualifies”, and families feel unsure of how or when to approach the conversation when the behaviour begins to interfere with daily life, relationships, and responsibilities.

The phrase "forgive and forget" implies that both forgiving and forgetting are simple, mechanical tasks. As though letting go of a painful memory is as easy as closing a book and placing it back on the shelf. But the human mind is not built that way. We are built not only to remember, but to retain emotionally significant events, especially when those events involve physical or psychological harm.