Blog
Shame
Although shame and guilt often overlap, they are not the same. Shame is more about how we view ourselves deep down, while guilt is about believing we have done something wrong. Both can weigh heavily, even though neither belongs to survivors of sexual violence.
Survivors have described shame as one of the most painful and isolating feelings they have experienced. It can feel tangled, overwhelming, and deeply personal. Many describe it as something that clings and weighs them down, leaving them feeling small, unworthy, or convinced that no one will want to help.
This can make it harder to ask for support or to talk about what happened.
But here’s the truth: this shame does not belong to you.
Support us
Every pound donated goes directly to supporting people who have experienced sexual violence.