Have you been sexually assaulted? Let's talk about justice and healing (Justice for Survivors)

Sometimes, when things happen in our lives, especially when they happen to someone we trust, we can't even begin to ask ourselves, 'Did this really happen?' Even though we feel very uncomfortable and scared, we try to convince ourselves, 'No, I think it's possible.' This article is for everyone who, after such a painful and unpleasant experience, is finding the courage to speak up and seek justice.

Why does it take so long to talk after an assault?

Many people wonder why they don't talk about it or complain about it right away when something like sexual assault happens. But it's not that simple. Imagine someone breaking into a house and stealing a TV or some money. It's something that happens outside of us. But in a sexual assault, the scene of the crime is our own body. This is a very difficult and deep trauma to bear. When such a severe trauma occurs, the way our brain works also changes. Just like a glass falling to the ground and shattering into pieces, the memories related to that incident are scattered inside the brain. The brain tries to protect us from that terrible pain. So sometimes the incident can be completely forgotten. Or we only remember it in pieces. This is one of the symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) . That's why for some people, even years later, those memories start to resurface at unexpected times and in unexpected ways.

Obstacles in the law and new hopes

In many countries, there is a specific time limit for filing a lawsuit after a crime has been committed. We call this the statute of limitations . It is very difficult to take legal action after this period has passed. In cases like sexual assault, due to the trauma and psychological effects that we talked about earlier, many people are unable to speak up or complain within this period. But the good news is that many countries in the world are understanding this situation and are changing their legal systems. Some countries have introduced the concept of a "look-back window" . Simply put, it means that those who have been abused in the past are given a special time period of one or two years to file a lawsuit, even if the statute of limitations has expired. The most important opportunity that such laws provide is the ability to take legal action not only against the perpetrator, but also against the institutions that allowed the crime to occur and helped cover it up . For example, if a hospital, school, church or other institution knew that someone working under them was committing such crimes but did not take action against them, those institutions are also liable.

The power of your voice to awaken and heal

Filing a lawsuit or going to court may not be something everyone can or wants to do. But healing is a very personal thing. There is no one-size-fits-all approach. For some, seeking justice through the law may be part of their healing. For others, sharing their story with someone they trust can be a great relief. Remember, telling your story, raising your voice, is not just about healing yourself. It can:

• Valuing your pain: Your experience is real and the harm it has caused you is acknowledged.
• Shifting responsibility: The burden of guilt shifts from the victim to the perpetrator and responsible institutions.
• Empowering others: Speak out to thousands of others who suffer in silence, and your story will give you the courage to come forward.
• Making a difference: Your voice can help create the social and legal changes needed to prevent things like this from happening in the future.

The journey to recovery can be long. But you are not alone on that journey. There are people who can help you. Talk to your doctor, or seek the help of a mental health counselor.It will be a very important and courageous step for you to take. Sexual assault, mental health, justice, trauma, PTSD, survivor, law