Evan Rachel Wood opens up about abusive past

The 29-year-old American actress Evan Rachel Wood has revealed an open letter explaining why she had to come out about being raped twice. In a world where more and more women (and men) are talking about sexual abuse and mental illness, it comes as no surprise that the public has commended the Westworld star for her bravery.

Wood initially came out about her past in a Rolling Stone interview, which prompted her to share her experience with social media as well. She explains in the interview how both rape acts happened before she attempted suicide at age 22. Now 29, she still feels the pain, "The pressure to just get over it already should be lifted. it’s not that you can’t get over it, it’s just that you are never the same, or maybe I just haven’t gotten there yet."

Wood writes, "I don't believe we live in a time where people can stay silent any longer. I certainly can't. Not given the state our world is in with its blatant bigotry and sexism.

"It should be talked about because it's swept under the rug as nothing and I will not accept this as 'normal'. It's a serious problem.

"I am still standing. I am alive. I am happy. I am strong. But I am still not ok.

"Yes, I have been raped. By a significant other while we were together. And on a separate occasion, by the owner of a bar."

Well, since everything is out in the open now, figured I would share the confession letter I wrote to @RollingStone in its entirety. #NotOk pic.twitter.com/0FSP1gsE36

— #EvanRachelWould (@evanrachelwood) November 28, 2016

Will be taking a break from social media for the time being.
Thank you for all your support and courageous stories.
You are not alone. xo

— #EvanRachelWould (@evanrachelwood) November 29, 2016