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Credit: Instagram
Dakota Mortensen took to Instagram on Monday morning, days after it was announced that his ex-girlfriend, Taylor Frankie Paul, would not be facing domestic violence charges related to a series of encounters between them.
As Taylor, 31, confirmed a post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis and opened up about healing after the “public atrocity” she endured over the past several weeks, Dakota, 33, told his fans and followers that after his scandal with the Secret Lives of Mormon Wives star, he’s focused on more important things, including their 2-year-old son, Ever.
“I’ve taken a step back and had time away from the chaos. That space has been a breath of fresh air and has given me clarity. My focus now is where it should have been all along — on my son and creating a stable, healthy environment for him moving forward,” Dakota wrote in an April 20 statement. “I regret not stepping away from a difficult cycle sooner. I’m not perfect, and I take accountability for my part. I’m sincerely sorry to those I’ve hurt … At the same time, I don’t agree with how this situation has been portrayed publicly. It does not reflect the full context of what occurred or the impact it has had on me and my son … I’ve chosen to step away from the spotlight to focus on my family, my growth, and our healing, and that’s where my energy will remain. I’m closing an unhealthy chapter and moving forward with hope for better days ahead.”
“I’m grateful for all of the encouragement and support I’ve received, and I’m committed to showing up in a way that reflects that. My intention, over time and when appropriate, is to use what I’ve learned in a way that supports others navigating similar situations,” he continued. “For now, my priority is on showing up as the best father I can be for Ever.”
Also with his statement, Dakota included a disclaimer from the National Domestic Violence Hotline, as well as a phone number and website for the organization.
Meanwhile, just hours prior, Taylor posted a message to her own online audience in which she spoke of her mental health.
“I was diagnosed with PTSD about two years ago which I assume is now CPTSD … by more than one therapist for all those that assumed diagnoses,” she wrote.
Around the same time, Taylor posted a series of photos of herself looking a bit thin and disheveled as she spoke of healing and reflected on recent hardships.
“Here come the ugly parts of what healing actually looks like,” she captioned an April 19 slideshow. “If you know me you know I’ll admit my parts, flaws, and faults. I’m well aware thats apart of it. We’ll get there. This public atrocity that I not only lived through once but twice now, on even a bigger scale was ultimately the cost to my freedom. I wouldn’t wish this upon my worst enemy or even the ones who publicized it.”
“I cried on my knees in pain while also saying THANK YOU 🙏🏼 we have a road ahead but regardless I’m forever freed from a certain living hell I couldn’t find my way out of. Metaphorically someone witnessed me bleeding out and poured salt all over me… somehow I’m still here.. as we can see barely because I believe God held me through and sent help plus an army which makes me cry because, thank you to all of you that supported even without full context,” she continued. :God undoubtedly had a hand in this because after waiting 7 weeks on the 7th day EXACTLY I received the call all charges dropped. Those are his numbers symbolic for his plans which I’m nervous to see what’s in store.”
Taylor then added, “Steps moving forward are the very basics. We’re working on eating, movement, rest, and retraining the nervous system. I’ll be sharing the process, because if my worst is shared better bet I’ll share the rebuilding too.”
Following the sharing of her post, Taylor received kind words from Jessi Draper, 33, and Stassi Schroeder, 37.
“I’ve got you always,” Jessi wrote.
“And I’ll always have you,” Taylor replied.
“A giant hug to you Taylor,” said Stassi.
“My girl,” Taylor wrote back.
Secret Lives of Mormon Wives was put on pause earlier this year amid its fifth season.