The George Pell Case: survival guide for victims of rape and child sexual abuse

Cardinal George Pell is Australia’s most senior official to be convicted of child sexual abuse. Pell has spent his first week in the slammer after having his bail revoked.

Conservatives are calling Pell’s conviction a witch-hunt. While Lefties are celebrating that justice has finally been served.

But the ones who really suffer during high-profile cases such as this — are victims of rape and childhood sexual abuse, (of which I am both).

I know what it’s like to live with this beast.

I know what it’s like to cry so hard that you make yourself vomit.

I know what it’s like to be in the embrace of suicidal ideation.

For days on end, survivors have been bombarded and triggered — while sexual assault dominates their news feed.

New hashtags are created. Celebrities and members of the public alike — share their stories in solidarity.

Whether at home, the gym or at work — a sexual abuse victim is unable to escape their worst fucking nightmare.

Finding your way through a sea of ‘think pieces’ without triggering your PTSD ain’t easy.

PTSD robs a person of themselves — just ask any war veteran!

It’s vital for survivors to know how to look after themselves.

Below are my coping mechanisms:

Therapy

Conventional counselling doesn’t necessarily work.

It didn’t work for me!

I attended counselling sessions at Joondalup Hospital.

I attended rape support groups that I was referred to by my psychiatrist.

But I had to discover my own ways to heal.

I healed myself via sex therapy.

I healed myself via art therapy.

If conventional therapy doesn’t work for you. Look for other options because they exist.

Unplug

I deactivate my social media often.

I have a bath.

I masturbate.

I do a workout.

I have a glass of wine.

I read a book.

Being plugged into social media is an option.

Make the positive choice to OPT OUT!

Share Your Story

Sharing one’s story is not for everyone.

Actually, for most victims of rape and sexual abuse — it only leads to more trauma.

But for me, sharing my personal story has been healing.

I’ve written two books, umpteen columns and a one-woman show that was performed in the West End of London.

Artistic expression is my saviour. It’s how I stay sane. But ‘my way’ of healing may not work for you.

Rape & Child Sexual Abuse Isn’t a Partisan Issue

It’s not about Left or Right politics.

It’s about REAL human beings.

As survivors weathering the current PELL storm — it’s an important fact to remember.