On today’s episode of Why This Now? by Re:Set, we look at what it’s like navigating intimacy after experiencing sexual violence, and how the lingering trauma impacts survivors.

Author and survivor Sohaila Abdulali and public health professional and survivor Zahra Bhaiwala share their deeply personal stories of how trauma has manifested in their relationships, opening up about sexual assault to a potential partner and the societal pressures of victim blaming and gaslighting, while sexual violence counselor Tara Fox tells us the role of loved ones in the healing process and how sexual violence impacts survivors.

Trigger warning: Please note, this episode has mentions of sexual violence, rape, and seuxal trauma. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is experiencing sexual violence or trauma, please know there is support you can access. You can find information and resources around sexual assault and trauma at resetyoureveryday.com.

To see more of Re:Set’s work, visit resetyoureveryday.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook & Twitter.

CREDITS:

Host: Aakanksha Tangri (Twitter & Instagram)

Writer: Sanjukta Bose & Akanksha Mishra

This is a Maed in India production.

Audio Engineer & Editor - Kartik Kulkarni

Producer - Mae Mariyam Thomas

Assistant Producer: Husein Haveliwala