When someone experiences sexual coercion, they may feel ashamed, confused, or scared. They might blame themselves for what happened, or believe that it was their fault. It is important to remember that no one deserves to be sexually violated, and that there are steps people can take to heal after an experience like this. Here are some strategies that can help:
1. Seek professional support: Talking to a therapist, counselor, or psychologist can provide emotional support and guidance during recovery. A mental health professional can help identify patterns of behavior that led up to the incident and work through them. This can also help process feelings such as shame, guilt, anger, and fear.
2. Find a trusted friend or family member to confide in: Sharing your experience with someone you trust can help validate how you feel. They may be able to offer practical advice on coping mechanisms, as well as empathy and understanding.
3. Practice self-care activities: Engaging in hobbies and other relaxation techniques can reduce stress and anxiety. Examples include meditation, yoga, exercise, journaling, reading, or painting.
4. Educate yourself about consent: Understanding consent and boundaries can help prevent future incidents from occurring. Read books or articles on these topics, attend workshops or seminars, or talk to others who have gone through similar experiences.
5. Be mindful of triggers: Identifying situations or people that make you feel uncomfortable can help avoid re-traumatization. This could mean avoiding certain places or people until you feel more secure.
6. Take legal action if necessary: Reporting sexual coercion to authorities may lead to consequences for the perpetrator and empower victims to take back control over their lives. If possible, save evidence such as text messages or social media posts to use in court.
Sexual coercion is never okay and can leave lasting emotional scars.
By seeking support, practicing self-care, educating themselves, being aware of triggers, and taking legal action when appropriate, victims can start on the path to healing and recovery.
What strategies aid recovery from sexual coercion?
The first step toward recovering from sexual coercion is recognizing that you have been manipulated into engaging in nonconsensual sex. It may be helpful to reach out to trusted friends or family members for support during this process. Taking time to reflect on the situation can help clarify what happened and why it occurred. It's important to avoid blaming yourself for what happened.