I grew up in an environment that looked down upon asking for help. Having been threatened by my perpetrators if I spoke up, and growing up in a conservative religious community that frowned upon talking about one’s personal struggles or issues, I did not learn that asking for help was even an option until I was in college.
It brings me great joy and satisfaction today when I see all of the help and options out there today for children who have witnessed and survived trauma. Children are taught to speak up for themselves and seek out a safe adult when bad things happen to them. Today, it is okay and even encouraged that children and even adults talk about their trauma not only to therapists, but also family members so healing can be a group effort.
When a child comes forward with an abuse experience, we must rally around this child, offering support and love, especially if the child is a family member. The worst thing a child can experience is the rejection of his or her family when asking for help occurs. This rejection can have lifelong consequences that follow the child well into adulthood. Support and love is what these kids need. Let’s surround them the best we can.