In this blog we will explore counselling for male sexual abuse in Winnipeg. Sadly and frustratingly, sexual violence, assault, harassment, and abuse is still far too common. Hell, one is too many! On an almost daily basis we hear stories about women being sexually harassed and abused, most often perpetrated by men. However, sexual abuse committed against men is also quite common, but as it is for women, the issue is under-reported by the media and society in general.
Counselling for Male Sexual Abuse Survivors in Winnipeg
If you are a male sexual abuse survivor, please know that you do not have to face this pain alone. The injustice that was committed against you is horrible (for a lack of a stronger word), and the pain often leads survivors to isolate and withdraw. This isolation often furthers and deepens the pain even more. Please know that we are here to walk this journey with you.
Why Male Sexual Abuse Is Often Not Reported
To start, most men are ashamed to be the victim of sexual assault, particularly when it is perpetrated by other men. In our culture, men are supposed to be invulnerable and not feel emotional pain. In other words, guys are supposed to be the strong, silent type. It simply goes against the silent rules of being a man to acknowledge trauma and admit that you are suffering.
As a result, male victims of sexual violence tend to shove their feelings down and deny what happened. This repression of experience and emotion can and often does lead to isolation, anger, sadness, shame, guilt, and fear. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), major depression, anxiety, and substance abuse are also common among survivors of male sexual harassment.
Getting Help As a Male Sexual Abuse Survivor in Winnipeg
If you are a victim of sexual abuse, understand that you are not alone, and you do not have to be alone in this pain. As we (broader society) are beginning to more openly discuss this issue, there is less judgment by those who don’t understand how a man could be victimized in such a way. Education regarding male sexual abuse and demystifying misconceptions surrounding rape is essential to help male sexual abuse survivors heal and speak out.
While more needs to be done to bring this subject to mass awareness, it’s important that individual victims seek support. A therapist will be able to help you deal with your complex emotions and offer strategies to move through and past feelings of depression and anxiety. In time, healing can and does occur.
If you or someone you know is a male survivor of sexual abuse and would like to discuss treatment options, please get in touch. We would be more than happy to discuss how we may be able to help.
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