Sarah Hyland opens about healing after surviving domestic violence.

Thursday, the “Modern family“The actress received the courage award at the Variety Gala The Power of Women in Los Angeles, where she opened up about a previous relationship in which she claimed there was abuse, saying it was “the worst years of my life.”

She also explained how her mother on TV’s “Modern Family” Julie Bowen and her dog Barkley helped her through this ordeal and how support should be given to survivors like her.

“October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and while it’s not the easiest topic to talk about, it’s of the utmost importance that we do,” she began. “I have spoken openly about my experiences as a survivor and want to support others like Julie (Bowen) and everyone close to me did for me.”

Hyland then reflected on what courage means to her and said, “It takes courage to wake up every morning and face the world knowing that people may have no idea what you’re going through.”

“It’s too easy to feel isolated and misunderstood, no matter how strong you are,” she added.

Ahead of the Power of Women gala, Hyland spoke to Variety about how the experience of that relationship still affects her.

“It’s almost like you don’t want to talk about it anymore,” she said in an interview. “You want it done, and that’s it. I completely understand the pattern of dissociation. I’m very guilty of it myself…until something happens where I’m triggered, and I don’t I didn’t realize that a part of me had been healed.

“I don’t know if this part of a woman will ever be completely healed from this,” she added. “It’s something that marks his soul a little bit. It’s more about putting love on that scar instead of hating it and ignoring it.”

During the gala, Hyland said what helped her get through this difficult time was her dog Barkley, who she said was “the only being that I could trust with my true feelings and that I felt safest.”

“He got me through the worst years of my life and I know I couldn’t have gotten through it without him,” she said.

Hyland said the award was meaningful to her because it was presented by Purina, which aims to help domestic violence shelters provide services to survivors with pets through their Purina Purple Leash program.

“I know the bond between a survivor and their pet is crucial, especially during the darkest days,” she said.

The actress also asked the audience to write notes of encouragement for survivors of domestic violence.

“You can’t underestimate the power of letting them know they’re not alone,” she said.

Hyland ended his speech by saying, “As Domestic Violence Awareness Month comes to a close, remember what you have learned. Survivors deserve more. »

If you need help or need help supporting someone else, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START by Text to 88788 or chat online at TheHotline.org. All calls are free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7.