A Fellow Survivor’s Voice: You Are Not Alone
Being survivors of sexual violence transforms our lives. We view the world and ourselves through a new lens. We know this, because we’ve traveled that path together. The experience goes far beyond the moment of violation; it’s an ongoing journey filled with uncertainty, pain, courage, and, ultimately, hope.
The Challenge of Sharing Our Truth
Sharing what happened to us is among the bravest things we ever do. The fear of not being believed or being blamed can feel overwhelming. Sometimes, the pain of someone’s disbelief cuts almost as deeply as the assault itself. But over time, we discover that reaching out is an act of radical self-love and survival.
Acceptance and support are life-changing. When we were met with compassion and understanding, our healing felt possible. When we weren’t believed, the hurt was devastating, creating shadows of shame and isolation we had to work hard to shake. But let’s remind ourselves: other people’s reactions do not define the truth of our experiences.
Our Need for Community and Connection
We aren’t meant to carry trauma in silence. We grew up learning how vital community is (family, friends, those whose opinions help shape our sense of self). So when those around us let us down or fail to understand, it’s tempting to retreat, to bottle up our pain, to try to cope alone. Many of us have done this:
We stopped sharing our stories out of fear.
We put our own needs last, skipping therapy, and letting self-care slide.
We kept quiet, even as the burdens grew.
Yet, despite it all, every time we take a step toward our own healing—no matter how small—it is an act of courage.
The Power of Self-Compassion
There comes a moment when we ask ourselves, “Do we want to get better by doing the work?” Centering our healing isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Our journeys might not look the same, but the need to put ourselves first unites us.
We remind ourselves: it’s okay to need help and to seek validation. It’s normal to feel wounded by those who don’t understand. What matters is that we find and honor our own truth. Healing isn’t just possible—it’s our right.
To Every Survivor Reading This
If we’re struggling with disbelief, with pain, with uncertainty about what comes next, we are not alone. There is strength in our survival, even on days when it feels far away. Let’s give ourselves permission to heal, at our own pace, and seek out people who believe in and support us. We matter, our feelings are real, and we are worthy of safety and love.
Together, our voices are strong. We are seen, and we are never alone.
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