In this episode, Joelle discusses:
- What to do when someone discloses abuse
- Preparing for unexpected confessions
- Providing resources and support
- Encouraging survivors by explaining the law
Key Takeaways:
- When someone discloses abuse, respond with preparedness, openness, honesty, and compassion, as the listener becomes a gateway to healing. Appropriate responses include: "I'm sorry this happened to you," "I believe you," "The abuse is not your fault," "It is so brave that you have come forward," "You are not helpless," and avoiding rationalization of the abuse.
- Survivors may disclose abuse during emotionally triggering events, requiring minimal questioning initially, respect for the traumatic nature, and preparedness for unexpected confessions without judgment.
- Providing resources, self-care, boundaries, and empathetic support without trying to fix the situation can facilitate the survivor's healing journey.
- Explaining civil rights, statute of limitations, and legal options to sue perpetrators and organizations involved in coverups can encourage survivors to come forward, gain access to documents and truth, prevent future abuse, and inspire younger survivors.
“When someone tells you that he or she is a survivor of child sexual abuse, you are not the guardian of a secret. Instead, you are a gateway to healing.” - Joelle Casteix
Connect with Joelle Casteix:
Website: https://www.casteix.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joellecasteix
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcasteix/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joellecasteix/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@joellecasteix3262
Stay tuned for more information about Joelle's upcoming book This Ain't Your Mama's Midlife
