Breaking the Silence: “Overcome Familial Trauma with Zikhona’s Uplifting Message of Resilience and Empowerment”

When I was reading this passage ( I was accompanied by my cousin to school, on our way, he suggested that we do not go to school but play poppy house. I remember vividly. Then, the  next thing he asks me to take off my underwear, I allowed him to take it off. I was a child, naïve to the fact that we are family. He then penetrated me, I was feeling a very sharp pain and I started crying, that’s when he stopped.

He asked me to wipe my tears and never share with anyone what he did.

I still remember like it was yesterday,  when I got home, my grandfather and mom were sitting outside the house, I told my mother immediately I arrived home and I was brushed off.

The next morning,  when my mother was bathing me,  she noticed stains of blood in my underwear,  that’s when she started being inquisitive on what had happened.

I was then taken to hospital , I got admitted over a month receiving medical attention.

What broke me was the decision that my family took about the rape incident, it became a family secret, my cousin got away with rape, I felt completely powerless.) from the book, “NDILIGQIYAZANA NJE NDOMELELE” by ZIKHONA JONGIZULU, I could not help it but to think about how other victims out there, to this day still struggle to break free from family traumas.

So I have a message to motivate and encourage all the familial traumas victims in this blogpost!

Are you or someone you know struggling with the aftermath of familial trauma or abuse? You are not alone. The emotional pain and feelings of shame and guilt can be overwhelming, making it difficult to know where to turn or how to heal.

In this blog post, I want to assure you that there is hope for recovery and a life free from the burdens of familial trauma. I will provide guidance, support, and resources to help you break the silence and start your journey toward healing.

You Are Not to Blame.

First and foremost, it’s essential to acknowledge that the trauma or abuse you experienced was not your fault. The actions of others, no matter how devastating, do not define your worth or value as a person.

Seeking Help is a Sign of Strength.

Reaching out for help takes courage, and it’s a crucial step toward healing. Don’t be afraid to:

• Contact a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional
• Join a support group or online community
• Call a national helpline, such as the South African National Crisis Helpline (0800 12 13 14)

Resources for Healing.

Here are some additional resources to aid in your recovery:

• Therapy: Consider consulting a therapist, counselor, or psychologist who specializes in trauma, abuse, or family dynamics.
• Online Support Groups: Join online forums, such as those offered by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or the Survivors of Incest Anonymous (SIA).
• Mental Health Websites: Visit websites, such as the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) or the Mental Health Information Centre of South Africa (MHIC).

Empowerment Through Self-Care.

Remember, healing is a journey, and it’s essential to prioritize self-care along the way. Engage in activities that promote empowerment, such as:

• Self-Compassion: Practice self-compassion, acknowledging that the trauma was not your fault.
• Boundary Setting: Establish healthy boundaries with family members or others who may be triggering or toxic.
• Creative Expression: Explore creative outlets, such as art, writing, or music, to express your emotions and experiences just as Zikhona did.

Conclusion.

Breaking the silence surrounding familial trauma or abuse is the first step toward healing. Remember, you are not alone, and there is hope for recovery. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help, and prioritize self-care and empowerment throughout your journey.

I want you to take courage, find your voice, be the best version of yourself, because you are more valuable than you realized. Speak out and get help.

Note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice or therapy. If you or someone you know is struggling with familial trauma or abuse, please seek help from a qualified mental health professional or a national helpline.