The effects of child sexual abuse are not inevitable and do not need to be permanent. Human beings have an amazing capacity for healing. Just as traumatic stress can change “brain circuitry,” resilience can restore and reshape what is possible.
Resilience is the ability to overcome. It’s not a character trait. It’s also not something that some people have and others don’t. Resilience is the human spark inside each of us and is supported in community.
Resilience comes from a belief in yourself and an understanding of your value. It’s nurtured through positive and healthy relationships with family, friends, and mentors. It’s fanned by a sense of meaning and purpose. Resilience is the goal of our work with the kids and families who come through our doors.
Oftentimes kids are able to do more than get through it—though that’s important. The fact is, many of them can come through trauma stronger.
