Maria, who recently revealed that she was sexually abused by doctors, is setting an excellent example by openly speaking about her experiences.
Hollywoodlife.com exclusively spoke with Katherine Hull, a spokesperson for RAINN (the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization) about Maria Menounos‘ molestation. “Maria has shown incredible strength in coming forward and talking about her experience,” she says.
According to Hull, “More than 54% of all sexual assaults in the U.S. are not reported to police, and 97% of rapists never spend a day behind bars.” Maria publicly speaking about her own sexual abuse will serve as an inspiration to other sexual abuse victims.
“It’s very encouraging for other survivors of sexual abuse to hear from someone as high profile as Maria,” Hull explains. “She has an incredible opportunity to help others who have been affected by this crime by letting them know that they are not alone and that it’s never too late to get help from the National Sexual Assault Hotline. Hearing from someone who has survived and thriving can make a great difference in the lives of those who are struggling or afraid to ask for help.”
Hull thinks that Maria is serving as a great role model for other sexual abuse victims.”Many people who have been impacted by sexual violence often feel alone, afraid or ashamed — and these feelings can often deter survivors from coming and getting the help that they deserve.” Maria is showing that she is not ashamed of what happened to her and taking the first step in the healing process by confronting her sexual abuse.
We are so proud of Maria for being so brave and candidly speaking about her experience so that other sexual abuse victims will know they are not alone and be inspired to come forward with their own stories of recovery. Please follow @RAINN01 on twitter and Facebook.co
If you’ve been sexually abused, talk to someone who can help. The RAINN hotline is available 24/7: online.rainn.org
– Jenny Pickard
More Sexual Abuse Stories:
Brittany
Posted at 1:18 PM on June 13, 2012
I was sexually abused during my childhood. One of my abusers was also a doctor. I have PTSD because of it and my home life. I’m struggling with all of this more than every now. It continued in college; I was obviously a vulnerable target. I left college and just turned 20. I am in therapy and working on this, but it is very difficult. It’s so hard to live your life after these events. I’ve only spoken out to my therapist about it, who I’ve seen for over a year, and that made it a little bit better. I encourage other victims to seek help and tell a trusted person. I wrote all of mine down because I can’t talk sometimes and feel as if I am “little”; maybe the survivors can try that if they are afraid. It worked for me better than talking. Now I have one other person to help me carry this so I am not alone. About reporting it to the police, I didn’t know you could even do that growing up. But after the latest incident I had the hospital inform police, but I did not file a report. Unfortunately, if there is not enough evidence, the victim will be blamed and humiliated publicly. The attacker is then sent free, and it is such a shame. I’m not discouraging anyone to report. Definitely go to a hospital right after something happens and talk to someone about your options. Also, having a therapist discuss your options with you about reporting past experiences may be helpful, if you are considering it. Just remember, you’re not alone and deserve to to be heard. <3