How to support someone going through sexual assault/abuse
---TRIGGER WARNING---
The conversations surrounding sexual assault have been increasing over the years. Those who have lived these experiences are coming forward and telling their stories, sometimes years later. Because of this, we are learning the reality of what many women and men have faced.
When someone has been sexually assaulted they feel very vulnerable. They are often afraid they will not be believed or that they will be blamed for the assault. One of the best things you can do is acknowledge how difficult it was to say something and that you are honored they trusted you enough to talk about what was done to them.
Sexual assault can affect someone’s mental health, either short-term or long-term. This can lead to depression, anxiety, PTSD.
Sexual assault is a very traumatic event in someone’s life. They may feel like they can’t tell anyone when it happens. And they may be afraid they will not be believed. Often, people blame themselves and worry they did something to cause the assault to happen. But no one deserves to be sexually assaulted. The shame associated with sexual assault belongs to the perpetrator – not to the victim/survivor.
One of the hardest things for someone to do is open up. Starting a conversation about sexual assault or other mental health conditions can be tough – in large part due to shame or stigma. But talking is the first step to getting better
“Once you tell your story, it can be empowering."
“Healing begins when someone bears witness. I saw you. I believe you.”
@HealTheHealer
Thanks for the awesome post! It speaks about sexual assault in a different light and I strongly believe that many will be inspired to open up after reading this
Just a small suggestion: A *TW* could be added in the title instead as it is easier to see.
Keep up the great work!
~Sierra
@cuteeeezombieeee
Oh thank you! I didnt think of that haha, I hope the post is helpful :)
My husband recently told I and his family that his dad sexually abused him when he was 5 years old. It came out when we visited his aunt who he hadn’t seen in a decade, and she told us what his dad did to her when she was young. I have always suspected something like this happened to my husband… he has depression and anxiety, panic attacks, trouble using public restrooms, low sex drive, nightmares, and he is a recovering addict. Since all of this has come out, he relapsed.. I am trying to be as supportive of him as I can, but it hurts that he is using again to cope with the trauma… is there anything I can do to help him take the steps towards healing, or should I just be there for him and let him figure out his next steps for himself?
