Finding out that your partner has experienced sexual violence is a difficult reality to face. A myriad of emotions may flood you from shock, rage, despair, and helplessness. It can be hard to handle all of those feelings, especially when you feel the pressure of being your partner’s “rock.” After all, they are the ones who experienced this violence directly. However, it is important to understand: this affects you too. It’s okay to have your own needs and emotions about it. In fact, there is a term for loved ones who are supporting a survivor of sexual assault: secondary survivors.
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