Healing After My Workplace Assault: My Path Beyond Traditional Therapy
Trigger Warning: This article discusses experiences of sexual assault and workplace trauma, which may be triggering for some readers.
Content Warning: The following content includes detailed descriptions of sexual assault, mental health struggles, and trauma recovery. It also explores non-traditional healing methods, such as art therapy, which was instrumental in the author's healing process. Reader discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek support from a mental health professional or a trusted individual.
Hi, I'm Avery, the founder of Bloom and a passionate advocate for building work that works for everyone. This starts with an anti-oppressive approach to addressing systemic work challenges so we can collectively build more inclusive, equitable and diverse workplaces. My mission has been shaped by personal experiences with a few not-so-great work experiences. Most notably, experiencing sexual assault at work. Today, I want to share a deeply personal story about my healing process after experiencing workplace assault and how non-traditional methods like art therapy played a crucial role in my recovery.
In 2017, I was assaulted at work, leading to a mental health leave and eventually leaving the company. This incident drove me into a deep depression and a prolonged struggle with my mental health. What I've never publicly acknowledged until now is that this wasn't my first experience with unwanted advancements at work or assault. This incident unearthed years of unresolved trauma, compounding the impact of the experience.
After years of reflecting on my journey after experiencing sexual assault at work, I realized that traditional healing methods like therapy didn't resonate with me. While therapy is often the go-to recommendation for mental health, it wasn't the right fit for my healing process. Instead, speaking openly about my experiences and exploring art therapy provided the support I needed. I share this reflection for those navigating their own non-linear healing journey, still managing triggers, grief, shame, anxiety, and all the other emotions that come with such a horrifying experience.
Beyond Western Medicine
Our default often leans towards Western medicine practices, which, while beneficial, aren't always suitable for everyone, especially for Black and racialized folks. Our communities have diverse needs and experiences that standard mental health and wellness practices may not fully address. Recognizing and respecting different healing modalities that can be more effective and culturally relevant is crucial—but they take work to discover!
Hitting Rock Bottom and Finding Art
At my lowest point, feeling utterly lost, I felt an unexpected call to buy a blank canvas and revisit something I hadn't done since high school: paint. I spent late nights listening to Ella Fitzgerald and Leon Bridges, pouring my emotions onto canvases. This creative process consumed me for months, allowing me to unpack my pain and slowly find healing. Through art, I could confront my trauma, layer by layer, until I eventually rediscovered healing and joy.
The Benefits of Art Therapy
Art therapy, a thing I didn't know existed until I did it, was a transformative tool for me. It's a powerful form of expression that allows people to process their emotions creatively. Also, this is backed by science! Wild, right? Here are some notable examples of how research supports the power of art therapy:
Reduction In Stress: A study published in the Journal of the American Art Therapy Association found that 81% of participants reported significant reductions in distress levels after engaging in art therapy.
Reduced PTSD Symptoms: According to a study published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress, 68% of trauma survivors experienced a reduction in PTSD symptoms after engaging in art therapy interventions. This indicates the potential of art therapy in supporting the recovery and emotional well-being of individuals who have experienced traumatic events.
Promotes Overall Well-Being: Additionally, a 2018 report highlighted that art therapy can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD, providing a holistic approach to mental well-being.
Getting Creative with Your Healing Journey
I invite you to explore creative avenues in your healing journey. These methods offer unique pathways to recovery and self-discovery, whether through painting, writing, dance, or any other art form. This is your invitation to venture past the conventional methods and find what truly resonates with you. Your healing journey is personal, and exploring what nurtures your spirit and mind is essential.
One more Thing …
If you have experienced sexual assault or harassment at work and haven't come forward yet, please consider speaking with a leader you trust or connecting with HR if available. Alternatively, reach out to someone in your community for support. Addressing what happened is crucial, whether it involves speaking with HR, a trusted leader, seeking support outside your organization's employee assistance program or deciding to leave the company altogether. My healing journey started when I did the uncomfortable and scary thing and told a friend at work that I trusted and my parents about what happened. They immediately affirmed my emotions and grief with the situation, which gave me the strength to share my experience with others. Survivor denial and guilt are real, and talking to someone you trust may provide you the strength and power to come forward with your experience. At the very least, it will help you feel less alone—I know it did for me.
Resources for People Who Have Been Assaulted or Struggle with Mental Health in Canada
Sexual Assault Centre (SAC) Directory: A directory of sexual assault centres across Canada providing support and counselling.
Website: SAC Directory
Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA): Provides advocacy, programs, and resources that help prevent mental health problems and illnesses.
Website: CMHA
Women Against Violence Against Women (WAVAW): Offers support services to survivors of sexualized violence.
Phone: 1-877-392-7583
Website: WAVAW
I spoke about this experience publicly less than a year after it happened at DisruptHR. If you want to learn more about my ask for HR and People Leaders, you can watch the talk here.
PSA: The author is not a doctor, and this article should not be considered clinical or healthcare advice. For professional help, please consult a qualified healthcare provider.