Most narratives about sexual abuse start with statistics, perhaps to show how serious the problem is. Talking about statistical facts is also (unintentionally) a way of minimizing emotions that the topic can bring up for people. It’s easier to think about numbers than to think about children being hurt, particularly being hurt sexually. But we need to talk about sexual abuse openly to help people get the treatment that they deserve and need. An important focus is the people who are suffering and have suffered because of childhood sexual abuse and who haven’t reached out for treatment and recovery.

Many survivors don’t seek treatment because they don’t want to think about what happened. Thinking about past child abuse can bring up panic, fear, anger, and shame. The emotions can be overwhelming. If you are a survivor, you may blame yourself in some........

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