Here’s how parents can support a child who has experienced sexual abuse trauma | Jane O'Keeffe

By offering unconditional love and validation, parents can empower their child to speak their truth

A parent's primary instinct is to protect their children from harm. When a child endures the unspeakable trauma of sexual abuse, parents will often feel guilty and it may take time to process that feeling and heal from it. It's important for them to understand they are not responsible for something that was out of their control.

In the aftermath of such a distressing experience, parents are their child's strongest pillar of support and understanding and should focus on what is in their control. As they embark on the arduous path of healing, parents play a crucial role in helping their child find solace and reclaim their sense of security.