Domestic violence and abuse are often hidden in silence, wrapped in fear, shame, and stigma. Many victims feel unable to speak out, not because they don’t want to, but because society has conditioned them to believe they won’t be believed, supported, or even safe if they do. But the reality is, staying silent only allows the cycle of abuse to continue.
Statistics show that 92% of women who experience sexual assault do not report it to the police (ABS, 2021). That’s not because the abuse didn’t happen, it’s because of fear. Fear of not being believed. Fear of retaliation. Fear of judgment. In fact, 60% of victims don’t come forward because they believe they won’t be taken seriously.
Shame also plays a huge role. Many survivors internalise the blame, wondering if they could have done something differently to prevent the abuse. Others have been manipulated into believing the abuse was their fault. Society, unfortunately, reinforces this with victim-blaming attitudes, questioning what a person was wearing, whether they were drinking, or why they didn’t “just leave.”
And for many, the stigma of seeking help, especially for mental health support makes healing even harder. 34% of survivors believe they have to handle the trauma on their own, avoiding therapy or professional help due to fear of being judged or re-traumatised.
If we want to break the cycle, we need to break the silence. It starts with creating spaces where survivors feel safe, heard, and believed. Here’s how we can help:
Believe survivors when they come forward. The first response a victim receives can determine whether they seek further support or retreat into silence. Instead of questioning their experience, simply listen and reassure them that they are not alone.
Change the conversation. The stigma around abuse thrives on misinformation. We need to challenge victim-blaming language and shift the focus onto holding perpetrators accountable, not questioning the survivor’s actions.
Encourage professional support. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness, it’s a step towards healing. More awareness around counselling, helplines, and survivor support groups can help break down the barriers that prevent people from reaching out.
Empower men to be part of the change. As Simon, Co-Founder of At The Ark mentioned in a recent conversation, real men don’t stand by and let abuse happen. They call it out. They support survivors. They challenge toxic attitudes that normalise harassment and violence.
If you are a survivor of domestic violence or abuse, know this, you are not to blame. You deserve support, healing, and a life free from fear. Find someone you trust, a friend, a family member, a professional and start the conversation. The first step to breaking the silence is knowing you don’t have to go through this alone. At The Ark is here to support you. If you or someone you know needs help, reach out. You deserve to be heard.
Your support helps At The Ark continue its vital work in supporting families, educating communities, and empowering survivors of abuse. Whether it’s a one-time donation or a monthly contribution, every dollar makes an impact. Together, we can create safer environments and brighter futures.
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