Shake the Stigma; Stop the Shame
Childhood sexual abuse is not a happy topic. It’s uncomfortable. I get it. But if we don’t talk about it, how can we solve it? Refusing to talk about a problem only leads to a problem's persistence. So, let’s put our discomfort aside so that we can press on and be part of the solution.
Did you know?
Statistics reported from Darkness to Light.
These statistics are staggering, and yet, we do not know how they have been impacted by the difficult realities presented in 2020, in which:
Children were trapped with their abusers during quarantine, and
Stress may have triggered a range of mental, emotional, and physical responses from adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
Why don’t we talk about this more?
One in ten may not seem all that significant at first glance. Without data regarding the impact of 2020, the number actually shows improvement. A few years ago, data showed one in seven children were impacted by childhood sexual abuse. One in any number may not seem like an important topic of conversation until that one is your child or that one includes you or someone you care about.
Stigma and shame are two reasons we do not talk about child sex abuse. Let’s break those two words down.
Stigma is a societal view. Some topics remain taboo because talking about them is controversial or uncomfortable. Much like mental abuse and racial discrimination, people often stand to the side to let activists deal with the issues. In our homes and in personal circles, these topics are dismissed with whispered words and shocked looks.
Shame points to the survivors. Many survivors blame themselves or feel “less than” because of what happened. Shame may also stem from family members who embrace the stigma of not talking about what happened.
It’s time to shake the stigma and stop the shame.
How do we shake the stigma and stop the shame?
It begins with praying for children and adult survivors. It begins by creating space for those people who want to share their story. It begins by supporting local organizations that work to help children and adults. It begins by being willing to engage in the conversation.
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Month. When you see announcements and information distributed throughout the month, share it with others.
Opening up the conversation and being willing to drive awareness is how you and I shake the stigma and stop the shame.
If you want to be part of the effort to shake the stigma and stop the shame, type these words in the comments: Let’s shake the stigma and stop the shame.
