Sexual abuse is a major problem that can occur in many unexpected contexts.
From school to the workplace and even at home, sexual abuse is a crime that happens in many different places. Victims face emotional and physical consequences of sexual abuse that though cannot be healed through legal action, maybe validated when justice is served.
In this article, we discuss how to fight back against sexual abuse and the steps one can take to heal as a victim of sexual abuse.
Recognize the Facts and Honor Yourself:
The first thing to do is to recognize that something traumatic and unacceptable happened. Pretending that the abuse did not occur or treating it as if it were no big deal does not make anything easier; ignoring the abuse endured will only make it worse for you in the long run.
Validate your birthrights of consent and personal space, and then decide to take legal action to seek justice for yourself and to reclaim your power.
Be the Hero:
Once you’ve put yourself first, the next thing to come to terms with is your responsibility to protect yourself and others from the person(s) who perpetrated the sexual abuse.
It may feel easier to run and hide from the circumstances, but this is not doing you or anyone else any favors. Do the right thing for yourself and for others who could be at risk of abuse from the same perpetrator(s).
Sexual Abuse Attorney and Pressing Charges:
Taking action against the abuse faced requires first and foremost that you speak with a sexual abuse attorney in your area. Most firms offer free consultations that are confidential and will provide you with the essential information you’ll need to know about how to proceed to court.
Be brave and follow through with these steps so that you can press charges and get the justice you deserve.
Heal with Therapy and Activism:
Whatever the outcome of your case is, the most important thing you can do for yourself is to continue sharing your story with licensed professionals who can help you process your trauma effectively to heal.
Join organizations, protests, and support groups all in the name of your survival status. Know that you are in control of your mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing, and everything you do to help yourself heal will help you overcome what you’ve gone through.
The Bottom Line:
Sexual abuse is never okay. For victims’ safety everywhere, speak up and take smart, active measures to protect yourself and those around you against sexual abuse.
It’s never the victim’s fault, but victims can play a huge role in preventing future cases of sexual abuse by sharing their stories and speaking up on behalf of sexual abuse survivors.
It’s easier to stay silent, but silence is what allows these crimes to continue. Be the catalyst for change and find a way to put the past behind you by gaining the strength and justice that you deserve.
