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By Diane Nelson

 

The effects of domestic and sexual violence are profound and far-reaching. Victims often experience a range of emotional and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and low self-esteem. Many individuals also struggle with feelings of shame, guilt, or fear, which can make it difficult to seek help or trust others. The physical toll can be just as significant. Injuries, chronic pain, and health problems are common among victims, alongside a heightened risk of substance abuse as individuals attempt to manage the overwhelming stress and trauma.

For families, the impact is equally devastating. Children who witness or experience violence may develop behavioral issues, academic struggles, or emotional instability. They might also internalize unhealthy relationship patterns, creating a cycle of abuse that continues into adulthood. These effects ripple through the family unit, creating tension, mistrust, and emotional disconnection. It affects everyone – for sure!

One of the therapies we use at Steps to Hope is counseling, which plays a crucial role in the recovery process for victims and their families. This treatment is not new, by any means. It’s been around for generations. 

I remember, as a child, my mother’s “pink kitchen table.” That piece of furniture heard about EVERYTHING.  It solved relationship issues, heard about a husband’s drinking, a troubled kid at school, immigration issues, difficulties with finances, kids, cooking, food…You name it…that pink table heard it ALL. (When they dropped their voices to a whisper, I KNEW it was SERIOUS!)  

It looked a lot like counseling.  

Week after week, someone would come for a “cup of coffee” (always accompanied by a melted string cheese sandwich). And then the session began. After about an hour, these two good friends both parted, much happier, and got on with their day. They had practical solutions to whatever was happening. It was amazing!  

There’s something to that whole idea of pouring out your mind and heart in a confidential way to a trusted advisor. Sometimes, we have to do that to figure out the best way to handle a situation. There’s no judgment. There’s no shame. There’s no fear. It’s just life! And it happens to all of us.  

On stepstohope.org, you will find an in-depth article on this subject. Give it a read. And then, if you or someone you love has been affected by domestic or sexual violence, know that help is available. Steps to Hope is here to provide compassionate counseling and support to those in need. Take the first step toward healing today by reaching out to our team of dedicated professionals. You are not alone. Recovery is possible. Call us at 828-894-2340.   

We’re here. We can help.