11/18/2025
On the World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence, let’s remind ourselves of our collective responsibility to protect children. This year’s theme–“emerging technologies, threats and opportunities for the protection of children from s*xual exploitation and s*xual abuse”– is timely, and vital. As technology advances, the risks to children online are multiplying exponentially.
In the last year, 82 million girls and 69 million boys have experienced some form of s*xual violence globally. This is approximately 3 girls and 2 boys per second.
Globally, countless young individuals are victims of s*xual misconduct and exploitation. Such violations are pervasive, cutting across all nations and societal strata.
Children, especially girls, are at a greater risk of experiencing forced s*x and s*xual exploitation, abuse and violence, including both online and offline, and it’s also a common situation during armed conflicts.
In the global context of multiple challenges – the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, conflicts, climate change and disasters – the inadequate action, or measures to address the root causes, such as rising inequalities, deepening poverty, and structural discrimination on intersecting grounds, continue to exacerbate the situations that expose children to exploitation, abuse and violence. Child victims and survivors of such crimes can face long-lasting negative impacts on their physical, mental, and s*xual health and development. Such trauma on children may even amount to torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment.
Many victims and survivors never disclose and/or seek justice, rehabilitation or support because of the shame. For many victims and survivors, their child abuse experience affects their physical and mental health and well-being, and sometimes there are lifelong consequences.
Useful Tips on How to Overcome Trauma
Overcoming trauma from child s*xual exploitation, abuse, or violence is a deeply personal journey, but there are helpful steps survivors can take. Supportive strategies can provide tools for healing and growth. Below are some approaches that may help:
Seek Professional Help
Talking to a trained therapist or counselor is crucial. Professionals can provide guidance, coping tools, and a safe space for sharing feelings. Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral or trauma-focused approaches, often helps survivors process their experiences.
Build a Support Network
Surrounding yourself with trusted people can make a difference. Friends, family, or support groups offer encouragement and understanding. Connection with others who have faced similar experiences can also foster a sense of solidarity and shared healing.
Focus on Self-Care
Engaging in activities that nurture your well-being can be restorative. Exercise, mindfulness practices, and creative outlets like art or writing help manage stress. Taking time for yourself reinforces the importance of your healing journey.
Educate Yourself
Learning about trauma and its effects can empower survivors. Understanding that feelings like fear, anger, or shame are common responses to trauma can reduce self-blame and provide reassurance.
Practice Patience with Yourself
Healing from trauma is not linear, and setbacks are normal. Be kind to yourself during tough moments and celebrate progress, no matter how small. Acknowledging that recovery takes time can alleviate pressure.
Create Boundaries
Establishing and maintaining boundaries with people and situations that feel unsafe is essential. This can help survivors regain control and protect their emotional well-being.
Consider Joining a Support Group
Many organizations offer group sessions for survivors. Sharing experiences and hearing others’ stories in a safe environment can reduce isolation and inspire hope.
Every survivor’s journey is unique, and what works for one person may not suit another. Trying different strategies and seeking support can help in finding a path to healing.