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April is both Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Awareness month. The following article is the fifth article of a five-week series focusing on raising awareness about sexual assault and child abuse. Locally, HCWC served 667 community members that experienced sexual assault or abuse and 937 children that suffered abuse and their protective caregivers.
When someone in your life experiences sexual assault or child abuse they might not feel safe disclosing the abuse, even to someone close to them. There are so many factors involved in creating an environment that those that have experienced abuse feel safe to share their story.
The way you talk about sensitive topics, even casually, can influence whether a survivor feels safe opening up to you. Making dismissive comments about survivors of high-profile cases involving celebrities or sports figures — such as questioning their motives or minimizing their experiences — can inadvertently signal that you might not take their story seriously. Statements like “Why didn’t they report it sooner?” or “They’re just after attention” can be deeply hurtful and create barriers to disclosure.
Instead, approach such discussions with empathy and an understanding of the complexities survivors face. The most important thing you can do is listen. Let them share their story at their own pace without interrupting or probing for details. Avoid questioning their decisions or expressing doubt, as this can make them feel blamed or invalidated. Phrases like “I believe you,” “This is not your fault” and “Thank you for trusting me” provide reassurance and affirm their courage in opening up.
Whether they choose to report the abuse, seek therapy, or simply take time to process, your role is to support their autonomy. Offer options but never pressure them into actions they’re not ready for.
Offer to help in ways that meet their needs. This can be helping them find resources or creating a safe space where they can feel secure. Learning more about trauma and its effects can help you better understand what they are going through. This helps you to be a more informed and empathetic supporter.
Being there for a friend or family member who is a survivor of sexual assault or child abuse is a profound act of love and care. Your support can remind them that they are not alone, and that healing is possible.
By listening, validating, and empowering them — and being mindful of how your words and opinions might be perceived, you help create a foundation of trust and hope that can guide them on their journey to recovery.
Throughout the month of April, in addition to this article series, we will be sharing content across all our social media platforms as well as participating in community events. Be sure to follow us on social media for updates on upcoming events. You can find us using the @HCWCenter handle on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
