I am my own home: the sense of place for survivors of child abuse

I've been living in a new house for a few days now. I feel safe enough, but why can a sheltered domestic space be so crucial for survivors of child abuse?

Healing often requires professional support, therapy, and a broader network of resources. However, a supportive and safe home environment can play a significant role in a survivor's journey toward recovery and empowerment. This reclamation process is crucial for restoring a sense of agency and ownership over their lives.

With adequate resources and support, survivors can work to make their homes a healing haven. This may involve therapy, self-care practices, and creating an environment that promotes emotional well-being.

The home is a space of crucial importance for survivors of childhood abuse for several reasons, such as:

1. The home can serve as a place of safety and sanctuary. It represents a refuge from the outside world where survivors can seek solace, comfort, and protection.

2. The home can be the place where they regain control over their surroundings, decisions, and daily lives. This autonomy is essential for rebuilding their self-esteem and confidence.

3. Many survivors have had their boundaries violated and personal space invaded. Their home is an opportunity to reclaim their personal space and assert their boundaries.

4. A healthy home provides survivors privacy and safety in processing their emotions and memories. This privacy allows them to engage in self-therapeutic activities or decompress in a secure environment.

5. A supportive and nurturing home environment can be instrumental in a survivor's healing journey. It can involve living with understanding family members or housemates who respect their boundaries and provide emotional support.

6. Some survivors may choose to incorporate therapeutic elements into their homes. These therapeutic spaces can facilitate healing activities and serve as a tangible reminder of their commitment to recovery.

7. Transforming the home into a place of positivity and growth allows survivors to create new and positive memories that contrast with the traumatic ones. This process can help overwrite painful associations and foster a sense of renewal.

8. Establishing a stable and predictable routine within the home environment can reassure survivors, providing a sense of stability that was absent during their traumatic experiences.