Today we’d like to introduce you to Joyce Greer.
Hi Joyce, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Domestic abuse, neglect, and mental illness are social ills that affect a multitude of households in the United States and have been for generations. During my childhood, these issues were mostly ignored unless there was a horrible tragedy such as death. When it (homicide) finally came among us, we were gravely wounded and have not been able as a family to put the pieces together. My siblings and I grew up in a dysfunctional household that was constantly inundated with physical violence, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and alcohol addiction. Our father was mentally unstable and as the youngest child, I alone spent the most time with him. My experiences and social interactions in my youth influenced my attitude and behavior throughout the stages of my lifespan. The development of my personality hinged on the environment of my household. My parent’s provision of safety was nonexistent; This had a profound effect on my ability to adapt to different levels of my social development. Emotions such as anxiety and fear encapsulated my thoughts and they were apparent in my behavior. My level of functioning was hampered as result. The presence of the Holy Spirit was always there whom I know now saved me from self-destruction and being killed by an intimate partner. However, my uncontrolled fear and panic disorder; this had paralyzed my life for several years causing me to not make good decisions. I lived a nightmare until God intervened and allowed me to run from my abuser and never look back but I still had another problem…I had a drug addiction.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Drug use Fear and extreme anxiety
Medical diagnosis
Isolation
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I have a Master’s in Family Counseling and a Bachelor’s in Social work. I am an educator for homeless, autistic children. I am most proud of raising my kids on my own. Writing a non-fiction novel detailing the long-lasting effects of domestic violence.
Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
Lay in the grass in our front yard and watch the clouds float by.
Contact Info:
