Resilience: Using optimism to help domestic and sexual victims begin healing

 Research shows a strong link between optimism and longevity. People who are resilient become positive and optimistic. They can regulate their feelings in critical situations to maintain their optimism. Dr. Krystal Evans stated, “Optimism is empowering. It’s the belief that no matter what challenges you face, that you can make a difference.”
           Victims of domestic and sexual violence face extreme challenges, to pathway from hurting to healing. Victims ask, “will this pain ever end?”. Advocates can remind victims “the pain you feel will end when the trauma you have experienced is listened to, gently spoken to and holistically healed.”  
           When engaging a victim, you can reduce their sense of helplessness   Ensuring victims that it is not their fault, taking construction action (primary control) begins the work to healing. Using optimism advocates can remind victims that there is darkness, but healing can allow for release. Optimism can help to set them free from the pain and restraints of abuse.
       Tips to provide victims is distraction when thinking negative thoughts. One example wearing an elastic band on their wrist. The victim snaps the band when they begin to have negative thoughts. Victims who “miss” their abuser can use the skill of disputation, where they argue against their thoughts. They can remind themselves of the negative behavior in the relationship like when the abuser put her down, made her feel bad about herself, or made her afraid by smashing things, destroying her property, controlling what she does, who she sees, to help her realize the relationship was built on mistruths. 
           
Optimism, like any habit, can be developed with effort and desire for change. Advocates can encourage victims to remember the abuse was not their fault, but more importantly they have the confidence to choose change.   to edit.