Bad experience on sexual abuse helpline

[Whispermae]

For the first time I tried talking to someone on a sexual abuse helpline. It was because a very recent (nonsexual but physically violent) assault triggered all sorts of stuff around my past experiences. While the majority of my abuse was not sexual, I have had experienced of sexual abuse, as I've discussed in previous posts.

I received such lovely replies here awhile ago about how I could certainly access a sexual abuse helpline to talk things through. Unfortunately, the lady on the line did not feel the same way. After I explained my situation she said she could not help me because my recent assault was not sexual. She was very annoyed and unsympathetic and I feel a hundred times worse.

I never want to call anyone for help again. I may not have sounded it (because I am good at being calm) but I was absolutely desperate for someone to listen.

[Willa]

Hi Whispermae,

I am so sorry that happened to you! Assault and sexual assault are incredibly nuanced, and it does not seem the operator handled it sensitively at all. Can I ask if this was a source recommended here or one you found on your own? You were not in the wrong at all to search for care for yourself, and I commend you and your bravery in being vulnerable about your experiences.

Would you like to discuss or expand on your feelings surrounding the recent assault? Another option for you could be to find a day chat is scheduled to discuss this more with a volunteer one-on-one through our chat feature.