Speaking out about your experience with sexual violence takes tremendous courage. It can also be deeply healing and powerful. But it’s important to honestly ask yourself if you’re ready to publicly share your story—or if what you’re really looking for is a safe space to disclose and get support.
Understanding the difference between disclosing and storytelling can help you make the decision that’s right for you, right now.
What Is Disclosing?
Disclosure involves telling your survival story, often for the first time, in a safe, supportive environment. It’s often a personal and private moment, meant to relieve the emotional burden, receive support, or begin healing.
Disclosing is a crucial step for many survivors seeking validation and support. You can disclose to trusted friends, family members, therapists, or anyone else you feel safe around.
You can also disclose to a trained support specialist through RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline, where you’ll find free, confidential, 24/7 support in English and en Español:
- Call 800.656.HOPE (4673)
- Chat at hotline.RAINN.org
- Text HOPE to 64673
You May Be Ready To Disclose If…
- You feel overwhelmed by your experience and want emotional support
- You’re looking for validation and acknowledgment from people you trust
- You want help identifying the next steps on your healing journey
RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline is an anonymous, judgment-free space where survivors can disclose safely, receive immediate support, and get connected to professional counseling and other recovery services.
What Is Survivor Storytelling?
Storytelling is the art of shaping your ideas, insights, and experiences into a narrative that captures people’s hearts and minds.
Survivor storytelling involves amplifying your lived experience to educate, advocate, and create change. It’s an intentional act aimed at creating broader awareness about sexual violence, influencing policies, or helping other survivors feel less isolated.
Through storytelling, you have the power to radically reshape the world’s knowledge, attitudes, intentions, beliefs, and behaviors—to rewrite the narrative around the realities of sexual violence.
You May Be Ready To Tell Your Story If…
- You’ve processed your experience with support systems, therapy, or personal reflection
- You’re driven by a desire to help others and affect positive societal change
- You feel emotionally and practically prepared for possible public reactions and interactions
RAINN supports survivors ready to engage in advocacy storytelling through initiatives like the RAINN Courage Community, where survivors amplify their voices to raise awareness, educate communities, and influence policies and legislation.
Disclosing or Storytelling?
The choice between disclosure and storytelling isn’t always clear-cut—and there’s no right or wrong decision. Many survivors move between these two forms of sharing as their healing progresses and their goals evolve.
Before Publicly Sharing Your Story…
Ask yourself:
- Are you comfortable with the level of public attention you may receive?
- Have you developed coping strategies for managing potential triggers or challenging responses to your story?
- Do you have a reliable support community to turn to?
RAINN is here for you, whether you’re seeking a safe space to disclose or opportunities to share your story for meaningful change. Trust yourself to choose what’s best for your journey—and know that RAINN supports you every step of the way.