This April, Professionals United for Parkland brings awareness to Sexual Abuse Awareness Month. Many of us were rocked by personal and communal tragedy in February of 2018. Interwoven in our lives is also the potential for other traumatizing experiences to enter our lives. In fact, many times these terrible events open us up to the potential for abuse or danger. This month, PU4P shines a light on sexual abuse.
1 in 3 teens experience sexual or physical abuse or threats
from a boyfriend or girlfriend in one year.
We know that supporting a friend or family member who has been abused or traumatized can seem difficult. We often get paralyzed with worry on what to say or do next. How can we possibly help in such a terrible situation? The answer is surprisingly simple – be there for them, listen, believe their experience and acknowledge their pain. Some of the most simple but profound experiences lie in being seen and heard. You can make a difference by listening.
1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men were sexually abused before the age of 18
The desire to help runs strongly in us. Our community has had to rise up from trauma before, but with that surge comes compassion fatigue and can even trigger our own history of abuse, neglect or trauma. Taking care of ourselves while supporting others is integral. Each person has their own unique needs for support – spending time in nature, exercising, building a mindfulness practice, being creative and spending time with our friends and furry companions.
1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience violence from their partners in their lifetimes
When we are struggling with trauma and abuse ourselves, we need to seek support from those who are able to listen without judgement, support us through feelings and thoughts that are overwhelming, and aid us in getting services in place to help us heal. Sometimes the people in our circle are overwhelmed themselves by our experience. So we need to seek support from people further outside our immediate circle of support – sometimes that means a therapy, support group, extended family or friends. Help is available and everyone deserves support.
Professionals United for Parkland was founded to help address the long-term effects of communal trauma. Help is available – please reach out today.
During the month of April, Professionals United for Parkland remembers Cara Loughran. Cara Dances On is our effort to continue her beautiful legacy, by making college scholarships available to her fellow students at Drake School of Irish Dance FL. Two scholarships will be awarded annually, beginning in June of 2020, one based on need and the other on outstanding academic ability. This year one very special Scholarship will be awarded at the Orange State Fair on Saturday June 22nd. This Scholarship will be presented to someone whom has truly represented the spirit of Cara. https://caradanceson.net/
PU4P Updates Interested in joining our trauma trained therapists (licensed only) - please take a few moments of your time and join the PU4P referral directory. The MSD community will need services for the long run. PU4P links those in need with a vetted list of trauma therapists. We ask for a commitment of 2 pro-bono clients a year. For more information or questions, please contact info@pu4p.org. Please support PU4P by designating it as your charity with The AmazonSmile Foundation. They will donate 0.5% of the purchase price from your eligible smile.amazon.com purchases. Don't forget to check our Facebook page for the most current events, updates, and information about PU4P! Thank you for your support of PU4P and your dedication to the Parkland community.