Breaking the Silence: My Journal as a Sibling Sexual Assault Survivor Trigger Warning: This blog post contains sensitive content related to sibling sexual assault. In the darkness of my past, I carried a heavy burden. For years, I suffered in silence, trapped in the web of shame and fear that comes with being a survivor of sibling sexual assault. But today, I am breaking the silence. I am sharing my stories , not only to heal myself but also to let other survivors know that they are not alone. The journey of beginning to healing from sibling sexual assault is a complex and challenging one. It requires immense courage to confront the pain and trauma that has been buried deep within. But by speaking out, we can begin to reclaim our power and find solace in the support of others who have walked a similar path. One of the most important steps in my healing journey was acknowledging that this happened, this was wrong, it changed me as a human, it changed who I would be and how I would deal with my life going forward , acknowledging that the abuse was not my fault. As a survivor, I often carried an immense burden of guilt and shame, believing that somehow I was responsible for the actions of that sibling. But the truth is, the responsibility lies solely with the perpetrator. It took me a long time and a huge amount of therapy to internalize this truth, but once I did, it was a crucial turning point in my healing process.
I had not seen or spoken to my abuser since I was 18 years old, I was 52 when I really began to work through and disclosed to a very unsuspecting therapist, who had never dealt with this type of trauma before. I am thankful that therapist was willing to sit through many sessions of my anger, upset, pain, shame and guilt , and guide me through the steps I was beginning to take, but had no idea how I would do it, or if I could face it in its entirety. Another vital aspect of my healing journey was finding a support system. Connecting with other survivors who understood my pain and could offer empathy and validation was incredibly empowering. Online forums, support groups, and therapy sessions provided a safe space for me to share my story, ask questions, and receive guidance. Surrounding myself with people who believed and supported me was instrumental in my healing. it still is very much a part of my healing journey today. Self-care became an essential part of my healing process. I learned to prioritize my well-being and engage in activities that brought me joy and peace. Whether it was journaling, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in creative outlets, these self-care practices helped me reconnect with myself and rebuild my sense of self-worth. It is important to remember that healing is not linear. There will be good days and bad days, moments of strength and moments of vulnerability. But by embracing the journey and allowing ourselves to feel and process our emotions, we can gradually find healing and reclaim our lives. To my fellow survivors, I want you to know that you are not alone. Your voice matters, and your story deserves to be heard. Breaking the silence is not easy, but it is a powerful act of resilience and strength. Together, we can create a community of support, understanding, and healing. If you are a sibling sexual assault survivor, I encourage you to reach out for help. There are resources available, such as therapy, helplines, and support groups, that can provide the guidance and support you need. Remember, you are not alone, and there is hope for healing. As I hold this handwritten note that says "Breaking the Silence" in my trembling hands, I am reminded of the courage it took to share my story. The blurred background symbolizes the journey of healing and moving forward from the pain of sibling sexual assault. Today, I stand tall as a survivor, ready to break the silence and create a world where no survivor feels alone or unheard. Together, let us break the silence and pave the way for healing, understanding, and change.
As I build and work on this web page, it will grow , as more people get involved it will evolve into another tool to keep in your pocket and to share with other survivors.
please feel free to reach out at siblingintimateharm@gmail.com
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