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Social media can become another tool that abusive people use to cause further harm.

Abuse can continue online through harassment, monitoring, and smear campaigns after separation.

Blocking an abusive ex can protect your peace, even when it cannot guarantee digital privacy.

Laura had been separated from her ex-partner for several months when a friend sent her a screenshot: Her ex had posted about her on social media.

He didn't use Laura's name, but the details were unmistakable. He described their relationship as “toxic,” called Laura manipulative, and suggested that she had divorced him when he was struggling. Several mutual friends had commented, offering sympathy and agreeing with his version of events.

Laura stared at the screenshot, her heart pounding. They don't know what really happened, she screamed inside.

Her first instinct was to respond. She wanted to explain everything: the screaming, the threats, the infidelity on his part, and all the things she had tolerated before finally leaving. She immediately had the feeling that she was back in the relationship for a moment: defending herself, explaining herself, and waiting anxiously to see what he would do next.

How to Protect Yourself on Social Media After Leaving an Abusive Relationship

Unfortunately, leaving an abusive relationship does not always mean the abuse ends. Sometimes, when an abusive partner can no longer control you in person, they look for other ways to maintain access, provoke a reaction, monitor your life, or damage your reputation. Social media can........

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