Seeking help after trauma

Question

Is there any one-on-one support or group of survivors available to speak with? I have been searching for so long to speak to someone about my experience.

Answer

Finding support after experiencing sexual violence is incredibly important, and your desire to connect with others who understand is completely natural. Many survivors find that speaking with others who have had similar experiences can reduce feelings of isolation and provide validation.

There are several types of support available to you. Organizations like RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) operate the National Sexual Assault Hotline (1-800-656-HOPE) which offers confidential, 24/7 support and can connect you with local resources. Many communities have sexual assault resource centers that provide both individual counseling and survivor support groups facilitated by trained professionals.

Outside of RAINN, The National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) maintains an extensive directory of online communities specifically for survivors seeking support. On this resource list, there are numerous options available to connect with others. This comprehensive directory organizes resources by category, including peer support, military service members and veterans, male survivors, culturally specific online support, and support for partners of sexual abuse survivors.

Many of these organizations offer different formats for connection—from structured support groups to informal chat rooms, from one-on-one counseling to moderated forums—giving you options to find the type of support that feels most comfortable for you.

Remember that reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness. Many survivors report that connecting with others who understand their experiences provides not only validation but also practical coping strategies and hope. While the first step of reaching out can feel overwhelming, these organizations are specifically designed to create safe, welcoming spaces for survivors at all stages of healing.

Take your time exploring these options to find what resonates most with you. Whether you prefer one-on-one support, group settings, or simply reading others' stories, there are resources available to meet your needs. Your experience matters, and there are communities ready to listen when you're ready to connect. Thank you for trusting us with this. You are not alone.

Safety Exit

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