Recently, Diddy has had troubling allegations brought against him. The accusations are serious and have triggered 5 civil lawsuits and the FBI to raid his properties. These allegations are not only concerning for Diddy but also for the survivors involved. As his face and alleged crimes are plastered on tv and social media, it’s a reminder to survivors of their own trauma. This can be incredibly triggering and difficult for them to process.
Survivors have already gone through the trauma of sexual assault or harassment. And seeing allegations against public figures can bring up painful memories and emotions. It can also make them question if they will ever see justice for their own experiences. This can be particularly so for more of Diddy’s alleged victims who have yet to come forward, fearing backlash and retaliation from such a powerful figure. But how does it feel for these survivors to see their alleged abuser in the spotlight, surrounded by fame and wealth? How does it affect other survivors and their own healing journeys?
The Trauma Resurfaces
Often, when trauma survivors have had their voices silenced, they learn to invalidate their own pain. Then when they see a public figure, such as Diddy, everywhere they turn, it can be overwhelming. It can cause them to re-experience their own trauma, even if they have worked through it in therapy. Survivors may also feel retraumatized by the constant media coverage and conversations about the allegations. For Diddy’s alleged victims, seeing him in the public eye may bring back memories of their assaults and make them feel like they are reliving it all over again.
With the intense focus on social media, the news, and even news articles, it can be almost impossible to escape the constant reminders of the allegations. This can be difficult for survivors as it may feel like their own healing journeys are being disregarded in favor of the public’s fascination with scandal. That their own voices are being expressed indirectly by other survivors coming forward.
Emotional Responses
Survivors of trauma may experience a range of emotions when hearing about allegations against public figures. They may feel anger, sadness, fear, and even guilt for not speaking out sooner. They may even feel their own shame, disgust, and guilt. Or, any other associated feelings come up as they process the allegations and their own experiences. There is now a spotlight on the survivors’ trauma, which can trigger intense feelings of vulnerability and exposure.
In addition to these emotional responses, survivors may also feel a sense of disbelief or denial. They may struggle with the idea that someone they admired or looked up to could be capable of such harm. This can be particularly troubling for fans who have had a deep connection to Diddy’s music or persona. It can create a sense of cognitive dissonance and confusion for survivors. But also anger them as they are reminded of the manipulation and deceit used by their own abusers.
How This Can Be Turned to Support
Despite the difficult and triggering effects of allegations against public figures, there can also be a silver lining. As more survivors come forward with their own stories of abuse, it creates a sense of solidarity and support for those who have not yet found their voice. Survivors who did not get a chance to speak out, didn’t feel comfortable coming forward, or have been disbelieved in the past may feel a sense of validation and empowerment seeing other people’s stories being fought for, and bringing about a sense of justice for survivors. It gives a voice to the individuals who were told that no one would believe them or that their abuser was too powerful to be stopped.
Due to the constant attention on the abuse and the alleged abuser, survivors may seek out maladaptive coping skills to feel in control. These coping mechanisms can include drugs, sex, porn, or even self-harm. It is incredibly important for survivors to have a support system in place during this time, whether it be trauma treatment in Fort Worth, TX, friends and family, or survivor support groups. Additionally, it’s crucial for society as a whole to take these allegations seriously and create an environment where survivors feel safe and supported in coming forward with their stories.
Why Might They Seek Maladaptive Coping Skills?
Survivors may turn to maladaptive coping skills due to the overwhelming and triggering nature of allegations against public figures. They may feel like they have lost control over their own experiences and the narrative surrounding it. This can cause feelings of powerlessness, which survivors might try to regain through harmful behaviors. Additionally, seeing a powerful figure like Diddy potentially getting away with their alleged crimes may create a sense of injustice and anger for survivors.
Additionally, if they have long suppressed their emotions surrounding their abuse, it may be difficult to face them. However, when a similar case of abuse is plastered all over any type of media, they may not feel as if they have a choice. They’ve navigated their life after being abused by suppressing those events and memories. So, to have them come up repetitively challenges that sense of false safety they may have had previous to being confronted with new allegations.
How to Begin Moving Forward After Trauma
While it can be difficult and triggering for survivors to see their alleged abuser in the spotlight, or see a similar narrative played out in the media, it’s important for survivors to prioritize their own healing. This may mean taking a break from social media or limiting exposure to news coverage. It can also involve seeking support and therapy to work through any resurfaced trauma and cope with overwhelming emotions. Other coping strategies can include:
Belly Breathing
Taking deep, intentional breaths can help regulate emotions and calm the body’s stress response. Breathwork is known to help calm your nervous system so that your mind and body can feel more stable. To do this, place one hand on your chest and one hand on your stomach. Breathe in deeply through your nose, feeling your stomach expand beneath your hand. Then, slowly exhale through your mouth, letting your abdominal muscles relax.
For instance, if you are feeling triggered by the media or overwhelmed by your memories and emotions, you can take a few moments to focus on your breath. This practice can help ground you in the present moment and provide a sense of control over your body. It can ease feelings of anxiety or panic.
54321 Technique
Another helpful coping strategy is the 54321 technique. This involves using your senses to bring yourself back to the present and ground yourself in reality.
- Name 5 things you can see around you.
- Identify 4 things you can feel (e.g. the fabric of your clothing, the ground beneath your feet).
- List 3 things you can hear (e.g. birds chirping, cars passing by).
- Name 2 things you can smell (e.g. a candle, freshly cut grass).
- Identify 1 thing you can taste (e.g. a mint, the lingering taste of your last meal).
This technique can help bring focus and calm to an overwhelmed mind. For example, if you start becoming overwhelmed by anxiety or emotions, you can pause and engage in the 54321 technique. This can help you become more grounded and present in your surroundings.
Safe Calm Place (from EDMR)
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a type of therapy that can be particularly helpful for survivors of trauma. One technique used by EMDR trauma therapists is the “Safe Calm Place” exercise, which involves visualizing a peaceful and safe location in your mind. To practice this exercise, close your eyes and imagine yourself in a place where you feel safe and calm.
Use all your senses to fully immerse yourself in this place – what do you see, hear, smell, and feel? Stay in this visualization for a few minutes, focusing on the feelings of safety and calmness it brings. This exercise can help soothe overwhelming emotions and bring a sense of peace.
Building Resilience and Self-Compassion
Remembering you are not alone in your experiences can be a powerful source of comfort and strength. It’s essential for survivors to remind themselves that their worth is not defined by their past traumas. Affirmations like “I am worthy,” “I am resilient,” and “I am not defined by what happened to me” can be profoundly healing. When feeling triggered, practicing grounding skills is a valuable way to regain control over your body and emotions.
Simple techniques, such as focusing on your breath, observing your surroundings, or engaging your senses, can help anchor you in the present moment. This practice of self-soothing is not just about managing the moment; it’s about reinforcing your capacity to cope, reminding yourself of your strength and resilience in the face of challenges. If you struggle with finding self-compassion, there is trauma therapy in Fort Worth, TX, or a trauma therapist in Fort Worth, TX to help you work through the blocks and find your way to self-love and appreciation.
Let Your Voice Be Heard in Trauma Therapy in Fort Worth, TX
Survivors of abuse and trauma deserve to be heard and supported. If you are struggling to cope with recent allegations or have unaddressed traumas resurfacing, seeking trauma therapy in Fort Worth, TX can be incredibly beneficial. A qualified trauma therapist in Forth Worth, TX can provide a safe and non-judgmental space for survivors to process their experiences and begin healing. At Anew Counseling DFW, we specialize in trauma therapy and are dedicated to supporting survivors in their journey toward healing and resilience. Whether the trauma has evolved to sex and porn addiction, substance abuse, or impacts their daily relationships, our specialized therapists in Fort Worth, TX are here to help you process and heal from your past traumas. Take the first step today:
- Fill out our intake form and schedule your free 15-minute consultation.
- Learn More About Us and Our Services.
- You are not alone, and your story matters!
Other Therapy Services Offered by Anew Counseling DFW
Your trauma may have impacted various areas of your life, such as relationships, self-esteem, and coping mechanisms. Anew Counseling DFW offers a wide range of therapy services to support clients in all aspects of their healing journey. At our Fort Worth, TX-based therapy practice we offer a wide range of therapy services to support you in your journey toward healing. Our other therapy services include Sex Addiction Recovery, Trauma Therapy, Anxiety Therapy, Depression Therapy, and Couples Therapy. Our team of experienced therapists is dedicated to providing trauma-informed care and creating a safe space for our clients to heal and thrive. You deserve support in your healing journey, and we are here to provide it. Reach out today to get started on your path towards healing. Contact us to schedule your free consultation and learn more about how we can help you.
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