As Mental Health Awareness Month ends, the need for care and community continues.
We live in a world that knows how to respond to physical pain. If you break a bone, you get a cast, rest, and support. Sprain your ankle and people offer you patience, space and understanding. If you experience a visible loss, many will pause, show compassion and give you the time you need to heal. But what happens when the pain isn’t visible?
For many survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, emotional wounds often go unseen. There’s no cast for trauma. Many times, there is no obvious signs that someone is struggling. And far too often, not enough grace is given to those carrying this kind of pain. But these wounds are real.
Survivors may live with things like anxiety, nightmares, depression, or a constant sense of fear or shame. These aren’t just passing feelings. They’re the impact of deep hurt, and no one should have to carry that alone. Healing is possible, especially with care, understanding and support from a community that truly sees you.
Healing Is Not Linear
The journey to healing isn’t simple. It’s not about “getting over it.” It’s about figuring out how to live again, in a way that feels right for you. Some days, things move forward. Other days feel harder, like you’re back where you started. And that’s okay! That’s not failure. That’s part of healing and no one should have to do it alone.
The Role of Community
At HAWC, we offer free, confidential support to survivors of domestic and sexual violence. From counseling and legal advocacy to housing and safety planning, our services are designed to meet survivors where they are and help them move forward at their own pace. Healing is deeply personal, but it also takes community. Being believed, being supported and having access to resources can change everything.
What Mental Health Awareness Month Reminds Us
As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, the conversation shouldn’t stop here. Emotional and psychological abuse do not follow a calendar. Survivors continue to need support every day of the year.
HAWC truly cannot do this work alone. It takes all of us to ensure survivors have the support needed to rebuild their lives free from violence. Donate today to support survivors on their journey to safety and healing.
Learn more about our safety planning and how we can support you or someone you love.