Sexual abuse has been on the rise and survivors have had difficulty in recovering from the heinous act. But
do men have a significant role they can play during the recovery journey of women who are victims of
sexual assault? Well, we’re going to offer you some tips men can do to support women during the recovery
period.
Listen to their side of the story
As a man, give attention to a woman who is undergoing a journey of healing after being sexually abused. Be
available to talk to them at all times. Listen to their story, if they’re willing to tell you. Besides, they may at
one point need to pour their fear, sadness, anger, or frustration about the latest events. You shouldn’t
pressure the victim into speaking about their story, but instead, make them know that you’re free to do
anything they want to tell you.
Have prior knowledge of the effects of sexual abuse
Even though every story and survivor are unique, it’s important to acquaint yourself with the effects of
sexual abuse. Don’t allow or make the survivors shed light on the topic; particularly when you find more by
yourself. If you can get prior information regarding the same, the survivor will recovery quite smoothly.
Be a continuous source of support
Your loved one or friend will most likely have some reactions towards certain events. Here, you need to
offer that needed support as a man. You should learn to listen without making any suggestions whatsoever.
This helps a great deal. Moreover, you should let them express their emotions as they desire because this
will make them feel better in the end. After this, you should let them know that you are always on their side
and be assured that they can turn to you during all situations.
Practice self-care
Men can encourage their loved ones to seek more support let say from support groups or attend a therapy
session. With all this, it is the decisions of your loved ones on how to cope up with the new to heal better.
Depending on their readiness and motivation, different victims heal at different timelines. So, it is a personal
initiative to heal at a much faster rate. You will heal better if you lead the way as the survivors and your
supportive team follows you.
Respect their recovery
Different survivors have different recovery paths. So, depending on how you heal, you should respect it.
Don’t push yourself so much. Additionally, as a man, you can honor up the recovery process of the victim
for more healing
