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“Maid” Can Be Deeply Triggering for Survivors of Emotional Abuse
by Sarah Mitchell
Updated: Oct. 22, 2021
Originally Published: Oct. 22, 2021
Trigger Warning: Abuse
Before diving into the Netflix series “Maid,” I decided to read the book by Stephanie Land. As someone raised by a single mother who faced severe financial struggles and emotional exhaustion, I found many elements of the story relatable. I understood that the narrative included themes of domestic violence, which I found unsettling while reading.
From what I gathered through social media, the series amplifies the focus on domestic abuse, leaving many survivors feeling intensely triggered. Personally, I have never experienced spousal violence, so I wasn’t overly worried about being disturbed when I finally watched the show. However, from the very beginning, I felt my heart race and emotions surface that I hadn’t confronted in a long time.
As a survivor of childhood emotional abuse, my experience mirrors some aspects of the main character’s struggle. Though my stepparent never physically harmed me, the emotional turmoil was pervasive. She would vent her rage through belittling comments and destructive actions, leaving me feeling invisible and frightened.
Even though the protagonist, Alex, faces abuse from her partner, Sean, I noticed many parallels to my own life. Sean’s behavior escalates when he drinks, and while he never physically strikes Alex or their daughter, he resorts to verbal outbursts and destructive actions like punching walls or throwing things.
Seeing such depictions come to life on screen hits differently than reading about them or recalling personal memories. As I watched, I felt a wave of panic wash over me, as if I were reliving those moments.
While rewatching to prepare for this article, tears flowed freely as I witnessed Alex seek help from a social worker. When asked about her situation, Alex downplays her experience, stating, “I’m not abused,” despite the evidence of emotional turmoil. This moment struck a chord with me; it highlighted how easy it is to dismiss emotional abuse, as many of us have been conditioned to equate abuse solely with physical violence.
It took me years to recognize my own experiences as abusive. I focused on the absence of physical harm, which made it harder for me to validate my feelings. This denial is common among survivors of emotional abuse, and “Maid” captures that struggle authentically.
For anyone who has found “Maid” triggering, especially those recovering from emotional abuse, I want to emphasize this: what you experienced is valid. Emotional abuse can be just as damaging as physical harm. If you find yourself in an abusive situation, there are resources available to help you escape. You are not alone, and many others understand the pain depicted in “Maid.”
Resources:
- For assistance in leaving an abusive relationship, visit Domestic Shelters for safe haven options.
- Safe Horizon offers a free domestic violence hotline at 1-800-621-HOPE (4673).
- If you need food or face homelessness, dial 211 for help.
- For mental health crises, check out the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or call their Help Line at 1-800-950-6264.
- If you are having suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Summary:
This article discusses the emotional impact of the Netflix series “Maid” on survivors of emotional abuse. It highlights the parallels between the protagonist’s experiences and those of individuals who have faced similar struggles. The narrative emphasizes the validity of emotional abuse and encourages those affected to seek help and recognize their experiences as real.