Disney star Debby Ryan opens up about being a victim of an abusive relationship and surviving. The “Jessie” stars shares to her fans show they can escape a harrowing experience likes hers: by leaving before it becomes too late.

In an interview with Teen Vogue, star of Disney hit show “Jessie” detailed how she bravely got herself out of a friendship than turned out scary and unhealthy. She said she was not even dating the person but the boy got so manipulative and so abusive it scared her. She said there was a time when person showed up across the country at a meet-and-greet and said he needed to talk to her after a month of no communication. She told him to leave her life, which triggered his anger. When he became angry, he threw a phone at her, started to punch the wall and cursing her. After the episode, he cried and told her sorry. He also declared his love. But the next minute, he pulled her in a bathroom and locked the door. Debbie said it was a good thing she was able to leave before things got even worse for her.

She encouraged others who are currently in the same situation or feeling that they could be abused to leave before things got even scarier and dangerous. "The second someone puts their hand on you, a boundary has been crossed. If anyone is feeling manipulated or abused, that's the best it's going to get and you have to fight for yourself now," she explained. She said she knows firsthand how difficult it could be to be in the situation, and even more challenging to get out when the situation can make a person feel weak and worthless. She hopes her own experience could serve as an inspiration to young girls dealing with the same.

With her experience, it comes as no surprise that Debbie was hailed a spokesperson for Mary Kay this on their new “Don't Look Away” campaign. The campaign seeks to raise awareness and provide help to end dating abuse. Teens and young adults dealing with harmful relationships or dating abuses, can just text “love is” to 22522 and could immediately receive assistance from trained peer advocates.

For feedback, please email a.dee@ibtimes.com.au

RELATED STORIES