Dating isn’t always a “walk in the park.” Sometimes, it may be more of a challenge to date a girl with an unpleasant past, because then she may have trust or self-esteem issues. She also may be reserved and not too keen on keeping clear communication with her partner. But, before you get frustrated and call it quits, here are seven things to remember about a girl who has been through hell:

1. Be Honest About Your Intentions With Her

Don’t fight to get her to be your girl and then once you have her trust, play the, “it’s not you it’s me” card. She’s had enough hurt in her life, and she doesn’t have time for your excuses, because quite frankly, she’s heard them all. Be in it for love and the long haul, if not, don’t let the door hit you on the way out.

2. Her Silence Is Not Acceptance

Just because she’s not confrontational, doesn’t mean she isn’t noticing things. No one is perfect, and she knows that, but you should be able to differentiate what is right and wrong and it is not her job to hound you to do the correct thing. If you owe her an apology, just remember that her silence doesn’t mean she forgave you or that she forgot how you mistreated her.

3. Don't Call Her "Crazy" Because She Cares

Before you go and call her the unthinkable, put yourself in her shoes and see how you would react. The chances are, she is acting like any rational person with emotions would act. If she weren’t “crazy,” then she would be detached from any feeling, and that is when you should be worried. Be happy that she cares about the little things.

4. Overthinking Is Her Specialty

You can blame her past for her need to want to be certain about things. She has gone through her fair share of believing lies. If she is jealous when you mention an ex or concerned when you don’t act like yourself, she will immediately assume something is not right. She is one determined girl who wants to make sure she will not be put “through the wringer” again.

5. Don't Be Offended If She Doesn't Open Up About Her Past Immediately

Since her past consists of horrifying events, she won’t just blurt it out to everyone she meets. It will take her time to earn your trust and be comfortable enough to share her secrets. She may think her past is embarrassing and might scare off people, so that is why she may be reserved for some time. When she does open up to you, just remember that you are dating this girl, not her dark past. Help to make her future bright and be there to help her conquer any battle she may face. Don’t think of her as a victim, think of her as a survivor who still has the ability to love.

6. She Has Triggers

There will be certain objects, songs, or words, that can trigger her to think of something awful from her past experiences. Show her that you are different and are there to lend a helping hand if she needs it. Reassurance is what will bring you both closer together, since she will learn that she can rely on you if needed.

7. She May Feel Undeserving Of Love And Kindness

She may not understand why you are trying to swoon her with romantic gestures, but don’t be discouraged. Odds are, she wasn’t treated the way she should have been in the past. She will learn over time that she does deserve flowers or to be called beautiful.

P.S. Life doesn’t always deal us a good hand. We all face obstacles that can be tough to overcome. Everyone handles situations differently; some people keep a straight face and grin and bear the negative in their life, while others may become emotionally damaged and need time to heal. Avoid judging a person for their past and focus on what good things the future can bring.