Helping loved ones recover from sexual trauma

It can be tough to watch a loved one go through the trauma of sexual abuse. You want to help them heal, but it can be hard when you don’t know what to say or how they feel. In this blog post, <a href="LINK">Dr. Robert Turner</a> offers some advice on how to support your loved ones during this difficult time in their life.

<b>Remember that recovery from sexual assault is typically a long and painful process.</b> It is important to be patient and allow the victim to open up at their own pace. Some victims also need to talk about the experience over and over again. During these circumstances, let your loved one know that you are there to listen.



• <b>Remain calm.</b> Finding out that a family member or friend has been subjected to sexual trauma can trigger feelings of anger, frustration, or outrage. Dr. Robert Turner reminds people to focus on helping the victim rather than making threats against the perpetrator. Not controlling your emotions can only add more stress to the situation.
  
  

• <b>Be wary about physical contact.</b> When a loved one has been victimized by sexual abuse, it is common to attempt to comfort them by holding them, putting a hand on their shoulder, or hugging them. However, bear in mind that they may not want to be touched. So, before making any physical contact, seek permission from them first to allow them to re-establish their sense of safety and control.
  
  

• <b>Encourage counseling.</b> The road from being a victim to a survivor takes much hard work. It helps to work with professionals and counselors like Dr. Robert Turner. Gently suggest to your loved one to undergo counseling or therapy.