Help support 1 million sexual violence survivors

Dear Supporter,

As we reach the COVID-19 pandemic 1-year mark, I’ve decided to devote this quarterly donor report to supporting mental health. While everyone has been challenged this year, a history of sexual trauma can amplify the stressful impacts.

Here are a few reasons it’s so important to get trauma informed care for sexual abuse or assault. “Trauma informed” means a therapist who has specific training and experience treating sexual trauma.

Confiding in someone who can help.  So often survivors either stay silent or confide in someone who, though perhaps well intended, is not particularly helpful. Sharing with someone who is trained in treating sexual trauma can bring understanding to a complex and difficult experience.

Recognizing what is you and what is the trauma. The effects of sexual trauma can be so pervasive, it is easy for survivors to believe these effects originate from a flaw or defect within themselves. Learning to recognize adaptations to trauma can go a long way toward restoring a healthier self-perception.

Working through the trauma itself. There are lasting effects on the mind, body, emotions and nervous system. Getting help through these impacts is an important part of reclaiming one’s life from trauma.

It’s never too late to get help. Even if the trauma was years, or even decades ago, getting therapeutic support can make all the difference in the world. 

There are many nonprofits organizations and community clinics that cater to the needs of survivors. To begin the healing process and find support near you, create a free account on MapYourVoice.org.

Thank you for supporting our mission to bring needed help to survivors of sexual violence.