Former "Married at First Sight" contestant Jessika Power has shared graphic images and video footage detailing the injuries she sustained during an incident of domestic violence. The 33-year-old reality television personality posted the disclosures on Instagram this week, documenting bruising, a lacerated lip, and a significant wound on her arm, which she stated were inflicted by a former partner.
In an accompanying caption, Power addressed her past self, emphasizing that love should not involve fear, confusion, injury, or a diminished sense of self-worth. She advised trusting initial instincts when something feels wrong, stating that feelings of unease are not necessarily a sign of being dramatic or imagining a threat. Power also cautioned against confusing intense emotions or conflict with love and passion, asserting that genuine love does not compromise one's safety, relationships, career, home, or personal identity.
Power stated that individuals have the right to leave abusive situations without receiving an apology, explanation, or justice. She suggested that closure can be achieved by accepting the unacceptability of the abuse and choosing to prioritize self-preservation. Addressing survivors of domestic violence, she underscored that the abuse was not their fault and they did not deserve it, adding that staying in such a situation does not signify weakness and leaving is not always straightforward.
Last week, Power revealed that she had been hospitalized due to domestic violence and had feared for her life. She told the Daily Mail that she felt compelled to share her experience after a period of living in fear and shame. Power explained that she had attempted to hide the reality of her situation because the couple appeared happy publicly, despite private turmoil. She stated that she kept certain experiences private for a long time due to love for her abuser, fear, and a hope for change. Power found that remaining silent became more burdensome than speaking out, citing fear, shame, and the anticipation of public scrutiny and judgment as significant deterrents.
Power noted that her public profile as a television personality complicated her ability to speak about her personal life. She expressed shame and fear of judgment, particularly because her public image might lead others to believe they know her intimately. At times, the abuse escalated to the point of hospitalization, leaving her with lasting physical damage.
"I was subjected to incredible abuse which landed me in hospital more than once and I still have the scars that person left me," Power said. "I was left with spinal nerve damage and multiple scars both on the inside and outside." She recalled moments of genuine fear for her life and feelings of impossibility regarding leaving the relationship, highlighting that domestic violence often involves complex factors like fear, threats, isolation, and psychological control that can make escape feel unattainable.
Power expressed gratitude for being able to leave the situation and access support. She views her decision to share her story as an act of empowerment and encouraged others in similar situations to seek help, whether through public disclosures or private domestic violence services. She aimed to reclaim her narrative and demonstrate that domestic violence can affect anyone, regardless of their perceived confidence or independence. Power urged women to speak out when they feel safe and ready, emphasizing that going public is always a personal choice and that individuals do not owe the public their trauma. Seeking help through official channels like police, lawyers, counselors, or trusted individuals is as valid as public sharing.
Power gained public recognition as a contestant on season six of "Married at First Sight" in 2019. Resources for those experiencing domestic violence include calling 1800RESPECT or visiting White Ribbon Australia's website. In emergencies, individuals should contact 000.