“I can’t believe I’m spending my therapy session discussing social media.” This is a sentiment I’ve encountered repeatedly in my practice, and it’s a testament to our times. We live in a world where hashtags dominate our conversations and the reach of social media is inescapable.
During the week when the confirmation of a certain Supreme Court judge was making headlines, numerous clients shared their emotional triggers with me. Strikingly, it wasn’t just the allegations of sexual assault against this individual that stirred painful memories; it was the surrounding discourse—especially on social platforms. The threads filled with dismissive comments toward the brave survivors, the insistence that it was “a long time ago,” the jokes, the threats, and the pervasive disbelief were all too familiar.
It’s not solely the act of violence that can be triggering; it’s the dialogue that follows. Some individuals are eager to argue that jokes about rape, child abuse, and domestic violence are permissible, and while humor can be a healing tool for survivors, there’s a stark difference between self-reflection and making light of someone else’s trauma.
Survivors often face a prolonged healing process, sometimes needing more time to recover from society’s negative responses to their disclosures than from the trauma itself. Our culture has long been steeped in a normalization of sexual violence, and the pervasive access to these discussions reveals just how deep-rooted these issues are. It’s vital to recognize the real impact this has on healing journeys.
In a world where social media and online commentary provide a constant stream of opinions, one’s darkest moments can tragically become fodder for humor—often justified under the guise of free speech. This environment fosters victim-blaming, skepticism, and a glaring lack of accountability, particularly among public figures.
To embark on a meaningful healing journey, we must first understand trauma. It disrupts our lives, thrusting us into chaos. It’s the unthinkable, demanding our minds to comprehend the incomprehensible. Trauma can shape our identity, often whispering messages of shame, fear, and unworthiness. The aftermath can feel disempowering, leaving survivors questioning their own value.
Yet, society often responds with insensitivity: “Just get over it,” “Why are you still upset?” “Can’t you move on?” as if time alone can mend our wounds. Healing requires active engagement. It’s not enough to simply dwell on or suppress our trauma; we must confront it.
Participating in the healing process can be daunting. The prevailing culture may lead survivors to internalize blame, reinforcing feelings of inadequacy. In this hashtag-driven landscape, continuous exposure to negative narratives can undermine one’s empowerment.
The journey toward healing is a commitment to oneself, yet we cannot overlook the societal influences that complicate this path. While individuals strive to feel validated and shed feelings of responsibility, a culture exists that often works against these efforts. Engaging with media—whether through comedy specials, news reports, or online comments—can feel like an assault on the very empowerment they’re trying to achieve.
To all survivors: I believe in you. You are capable, worthy, and deserving of empowerment. And to society: we can maintain our sense of humor and express our opinions without trivializing the seriousness of sexual violence.
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In summary, healing from sexual trauma in the current social media landscape is complex and fraught with challenges. Acknowledging and addressing the societal narratives that accompany trauma is crucial for survivors seeking empowerment and healing.
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