Breaking the Silence: My Story of Childhood Sexual Abuse

My name is SA and this is my story.

As a South Asian male doctor, I never imagined that I would speak out about my childhood sexual abuse. It is a topic that is often tucked away behind the doors of secrecy and shame, but I have realized that speaking out is the only way to break the cycle of abuse and protect future generations.

I was sexually abused by my first cousin when I was just six years old. He was several years older than me and would play at our house, and I would also go to his house. Our parents never came to check on us when we were "playing"; no one noticed what was happening. What started as innocent play soon turned into something much more sinister. He would touch me inappropriately and force me to engage in sexual acts.

I was too afraid to speak out about the abuse as a child. I didn't understand what was happening to me and was terrified that I would be blamed or punished. I felt alone and isolated, and the abuse continued for several years. It wasn't until I was a teenager that I could avoid him and actively put a stop to the abuse.

No one could understand what I had gone through, the damage that was done. I spent years living with the trauma and shame of my childhood abuse. I felt like it was my fault. I struggled with depression, anxiety, and trust issues, and it wasn't until I sought therapy that I began to heal.

Now, as an adult, I am speaking out about my experience to you to bring awareness to the issue of childhood sexual abuse. I know I am not alone in my experiences, and I want to encourage others to speak out and seek help.

We need to break the silence and shame surrounding childhood sexual abuse. Speaking out about it can raise awareness and ensure that victims like us receive the support and resources we need to heal. We can work to prevent future abuse by educating children and adults about consent, boundaries, and healthy relationships.

I understand that speaking out about childhood sexual abuse is not easy. It can be scary and overwhelming, but I want to assure other survivors that they are not alone. There is strength in numbers, and by sharing our stories and supporting one another, we can create a safer, more compassionate world for all children.

SA.