Ebony Malika, a 21-year-old makeup artist from New Orleans, has channeled her experience as a domestic violence victim into a photo project.
Malika said that during the relationship she made herself believe that it was normal to argue and fight.
Malika said she knew that she needed to leave the relationship when she was physically abused and could not recognise the person she was.
And she now wants to be a voice that spreads awareness as well as encouragement.
She said she wanted to share not only her personal experience but the experience of millions of other women and men.
People have been thanking Malika for her project and sharing stories about their experiences.
Malika said she is elated by the support she has been receiving.
She said: "Those stories alone showed me that my mission had been accomplished. Domestic violence is a serious issue and no one should feel threatened by a person they love and trust."