Healing after trauma
Survivors of sex- and gender-based violence and harassment can experience a wide range of emotions after an incident of harm. When we experience an unexpected or harmful event or series of events, our brains and bodies go into survival mode. As the acute danger subsides, it can be difficult to come to terms with what's happened and to move forward on a journey of healing.
In the days, months, or years after a trauma, you may feel feeling anger, sadness, joy, grief, loneliness, or some combination of these and other emotions. It is also common for some survivors to feel numb, disconnected, or emotionless. Any response to an experience of harm is normal.
Support Groups
We are incredibly excited to announce our support groups for the Winter '23 quarter, Grow Together and Bothell Q-munity.
Grow Together is a space for students and alums who are survivors of sex- and gender-based violence and harrassment to come together for healing, support, skill building, and community. This space is intended for women and women-aligned folks.
Bothell Q-munity is a space for queer, trans, and questioning students and alums who are survivors of sex- and gender-based violence and harassment to strengthen their recovery skills. This group will rely on somatic interventions as a method of healing.
If you are interested in attending either of these support groups, please fill out our interest form or email us at uwbvae@uw.edu by January 18th.
Please note that these spaces are for folks who are not in immediate danger; if you feel your safety is at risk and you would like support, please contact our confidential advocates for one-on-one support.
Other healing options
As a campus community, we are working to offer more opportunities for folks who are finding their way down a healing path. Check back here for more updates.
In the meantime, you may consider learning more about the following healing modalities; an advocate can help you think through how to access ones that feel right for you:
- Talk therapy/counseling
- Movement practices, such as yoga and Tai Chi
- Meditation and mindfulness
- Energy healing
- Eco therapy
- Art