Gender-based violence (GBV) is one of the most common human rights violations that affects millions of people around the world annually. It is a global pandemic that can take many forms such as physical, emotional, sexual, financial, and psychological abuse. GBV can happen to anyone regardless of their gender, age, race, religion, or economic status. Therefore, as a responsible community member, it is crucial to understand how you can help a GBV victim to recover from their trauma and live a full life again.
Listen without judgment
When someone confides in you that they have experienced GBV, the first thing you should do is listen to them without judgment. Listening to a victim can be healing because it empowers them to share their challenges and express their emotions. It is essential to create a safe space where the victim feels seen, heard, valued, and understood. Avoid dismissing their experience or blaming them for what happened. Instead, let them know that you acknowledge their suffering and that you are there to provide support.
Do not minimize their experience
It is crucial to avoid minimizing a victim's experience. Telling someone that "it could be worse" or to "get over it" can lead to further emotional trauma. GBV can affect a victim's self-esteem, confidence, mental and physical health, and social life. Therefore, it is essential to provide them with emotional support that validates their feelings and affirms their inherent worth as a human being. Your words can be therapeutic, so use them carefully and kindly.
Provide resources
As a responsible community member, you can provide resources that can help a GBV victim to recover and regain control of their life. These resources include:
- Counseling services – therapy can help a victim to process their emotions, heal from their trauma, and develop resilience.
- Legal services – a victim may need legal representation to protect their rights, seek justice, and hold the perpetrator accountable.
- Shelter services – a victim may need a safe place to stay if their home is not safe or if they are homeless.
- Medical services – a victim may need medical attention due to physical injuries, infections, or pregnancy.
Providing these resources can help a GBV victim to feel supported, empowered, and hopeful about their future.
Help them develop a safety plan
Developing a safety plan is crucial for a GBV victim because it can help them to anticipate and cope with potential harm. A safety plan can include:
- The contact information of people to call in case of an emergency
- The location of safe places, such as police stations, hospitals, or shelters
- Steps to avoid or escape violent situations
- Ways to deal with emotional distress, such as stress, anxiety, or depression
Helping a GBV victim to develop a safety plan can enhance their sense of control, reduce their fear, and increase their resilience.
Conclusion
GBV is a serious human rights violation that affects millions of people worldwide. As a community member, you have a vital role to play in helping a GBV victim to recover and regain control of their life. You can listen to them without judgment, provide resources, and help them to develop a safety plan. Your support can make all the difference to a GBV victim's recovery process.
