AI: Navigating Survivor's Guilt for Improved Wellness
At GOTU, we believe that consideration for sexual assault (aka sexual violation) survivorship must be baked into everyday resources and technologies. The emergence in popularity of artificial intelligence (AI) led us to research some of the top tools and co-author information regarding this serious matter. Information in this post is per OpenAI’s ChatGPT v3.5.
Survivorship Issue:
Survivor's guilt is a complex and often overwhelming emotion experienced by many individuals who have survived sexual assault. It manifests as feelings of responsibility, shame, and self-blame for the traumatic event. Survivors may question why they survived when others did not, or they may feel guilty for not being able to prevent the assault. This profound sense of guilt can significantly impact a survivor's mental health and hinder their healing journey.
Definition of the Issue:
Survivor's guilt stems from a deep-rooted belief that one is somehow to blame for the assault or that they could have done something differently to prevent it. It is important to recognize that survivor's guilt is a common response to trauma and does not reflect any fault on the part of the survivor. The guilt is often irrational and unjustified, yet it can be incredibly distressing and persistent.
Impacts of the Issue:
Survivor's guilt can have profound and long-lasting impacts on a survivor's well-being. It may exacerbate symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. Survivors may struggle with feelings of worthlessness, self-hatred, and alienation from others (friends, family, partners). The guilt may also prevent survivors from seeking help or disclosing the assault, further isolating them and impeding their recovery.
How to Get Help with the Issue:
Seeking help and support is essential for survivors struggling with survivor's guilt. Therapists and counselors trained in trauma-informed care can provide a safe and supportive space for survivors to explore and process their feelings of guilt. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) are evidence-based therapeutic approaches that can help survivors challenge and reframe the guilt that they hold. It’s important to know that the this feeling doesn’t have to last forever. Proper care and support can help a victimized person move away from guilt.
Additionally, joining support groups or connecting with other survivors can offer validation, understanding, and solidarity. Hotlines and online resources are also available for survivors in need of immediate support or guidance. It is crucial for survivors to know that they are not alone and that help is available whenever they are ready to reach out.
Importance of Overcoming the Issue:
Overcoming survivor's guilt is an essential step in the healing journey for sexual assault survivors. By challenging and reframing feelings of guilt, survivors can reclaim their sense of agency and self-worth. Healing from survivor's guilt allows survivors to focus on their own well-being and empowerment rather than being consumed by self-blame and shame. It opens the door to self-compassion, resilience, and post-traumatic growth.
Moreover, overcoming survivor's guilt is not only beneficial for the individual survivor but also for their relationships and communities. It fosters a culture of empathy, understanding, and support for survivors, challenging harmful myths and stereotypes surrounding sexual assault. By breaking free from the grip of survivor's guilt, survivors can pave the way for healing, justice, and social change for themselves and others.
In conclusion, survivor's guilt is a significant and challenging aspect of the survivorship journey for many sexual assault survivors. However, with support, understanding, and self-compassion, survivors can navigate through their feelings of guilt and reclaim their sense of agency and worth. Overcoming survivor's guilt is a crucial step towards healing and empowerment, both for the individual survivor and for society as a whole.