From One Survivor to Another

1 year ago

49 notes

sexual abuse

rape

October 17, 2011

Survivor Vocabulary #7: Onion Healing

Onion Healing refers to the striated manner in which survivors of sexual abuse heal. Often, our memories and emotions are so disjointed (and sometimes buried) that it is difficult to grasp it all at once. This means that healing, like the layers of an onion, happens in layers. Sometimes Onion Healing happens in “bursts”, with large gaps of time between each layer.

Onion Healing is not easy. Approaching the next layer (sometimes in conjunction with major life events or stresses) can bring up a lot of painful memories and feelings. These emotions and memories can feel so raw and new that it may surprise you. This re-experiencing of hurt, however, is absolutely necessary to healing.

Onions are bitter, but they are also also sweet; they are beautiful both outside and inside. They add necessary flavor and something unique to life. On a practical level, they provide many antioxidants and a wealth of nutrition.

Survivors are like this too; our healing necessitates empathy and understanding of ourselves and others. Even though the work of healing feels self-centered, by simply learning to survive, we also help everyone around us to live and survive as well.