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Our initiatives help women that has been affected by sexual assault, and that are ready to start healing.
In The Dark
Coping with sexual trauma can often feel like being in the dark, but there are ways to find light and healing.
Waiting To Speak
Many survivors of sexual assault choose to wait before disclosing their experiences, and this is entirely normal and valid.
Unplug Your Voice
“Unplug Your Voice” after sexual trauma refers to the process of reclaiming one’s voice and personal power following the silencing effects of abuse.
What are some effective ways to challenge feelings of helplessness after sexual abuse
What are some effective coping strategies for managing trauma symptoms after sexual abuse?
Challenge negative thoughts.
Write down negative thoughts and try to reframe them. Consider what you would say to a friend in your position
Engage in physical activities
Engage in physical activities. Exercise, especially rhythmic activities like walking, running, or dancing, can help your nervous system move out of the immobilization stress response. Focus on how your body feels during these activities rather than your thoughts.
Participate in social activities and maintain connections.
Participate in social activities and maintain connections. Even if you don’t feel like it, engaging in “normal” activities with others can be healing. Reconnect with old friends or make new ones to combat isolation.
Join a support group for sexual abuse survivors.
This can help you feel less isolated and provide valuable information on coping strategies
What are some ways to reconnect with old friends after a traumatic experience
Reconnecting with old friends after a traumatic experience can be challenging but also rewarding. Here are some effective ways to approach this process:
- Take a leap of faith and make the first move.
- Suggest meeting in person
- Address the issue early in the conversation
- Practice self-compassion and forgiveness.
- Find new commonalities.
- Be patient and understanding
Recovering from sexual trauma is a complex and personal journey that often requires professional help and support.
Here are some effective approaches to healing:
1. Cognitive Behavioral Coaching (CBC): This approach helps identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with the trauma.
2. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Particularly effective for those experiencing major depressive disorder or suicidal ideation as a result of sexual trauma.
3. Somatic Therapies: These body-based approaches, such as Somatic Experiencing (SE) and Trauma Releasing Exercises (TRE), help release trauma held in the body.
4. Prolonged Exposure Coaching (PE): This technique helps survivors safely revisit traumatic memories to desensitize and reduce avoidance behaviors.
5. Cognitive Processing Coaching (CPC): Developed specifically for PTSD, this therapy helps survivors understand and change trauma-related beliefs.
In addition to professional therapy, self-care practices can support the healing process:
1. Mindfulness meditation: Helps regulate the nervous system and stay present.
2. Rhythmic movement: Activities like dance or yoga can help reconnect mind and body.
3. Journaling: Aids in processing emotions and tracking progress.
4. Creative expression: Engaging in art, music, or writing can provide an outlet for complex emotions.
5. Breathwork: Helps reduce stress and anxiety while increasing body awareness.
Healing from sexual trauma often involves rebuilding trust and connections:
1. Group therapy: Offers additional support and reduces feelings of isolation.
2. Engaging in meaningful relationships: Helps with receiving emotional support and normalizing intimacy.
3. Seeking professional help: Working with a trauma-informed therapist can provide personalized care and guidance throughout the healing journey.
Remember, healing is a gradual process that requires patience and self-compassion. With the right support and resources, survivors can work towards recovery and reclaim their sense of safety and well-being.