Addressing Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Against Men

By: Olivia Hernandez

June is Men’s Health Month, a time to prioritize not just physical wellness, but also the mental and emotional health of men and boys across the country. While much of the conversation around domestic and sexual violence focuses on women, and rightfully so, there is a crucial part of the conversation that goes unheard: men who are survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
 
The Silent Struggle
 
Statistics show that 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime. Additionally, about 1 in 6 men have been sexually abused or assaulted. These numbers are staggering, but they don’t tell the full story. Many men don’t report their experiences due to fear, stigma, or being dismissed.
 
In a society that often ties masculinity to toughness, silence, and stoicism, men are often taught that showing emotion or vulnerability is weakness. This toxic belief system can prevent male survivors from getting the support and healing they need.
 
Barriers to Reporting and Healing
 
Men face unique challenges when it comes to disclosing abuse or assault:

• Fear of not being believed.
• Shame or guilt, especially when the perpetrator is a woman.
• Stigma around male vulnerability and victimhood.
• Lack of male-specific resources or professionals trained to address male trauma.
• Concerns about sexuality, particularly for male survivors of same-sex assault.

 
These barriers can lead to long-term mental health struggles, including PTSD, depression, substance use, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts.
 
It’s Time to Talk About It
 
Raising awareness is key to breaking the cycle of silence. Advocacy organizations, crisis centers, and community leaders must work together to:

• Normalize conversations about male victimization.
• Train professionals to recognize and support male survivors.
• Promote inclusive services that meet the needs of all survivors.
• Challenge stereotypes around masculinity and emotional expression.

 
Resources for Male Survivors
 
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or has survived sexual assault, you are not alone. Help is available.

• Beacon of Hope Crisis Center (Based in Indiana) – BeaconOfHopeIndy.Org; BOHCC Confidential Crisis Line: 317-731-6140
  
• RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)- https://rainn.org/
  
• National Sexual Assault Hotline. Free, Confidential, 24/7 Support. Call 900-656-HOPE
• 1in6- A nonprofit specifically supporting male survivors- https://1in6.org/
• The National Domestic Violence Hotline- 1-800-799-SAFE

 
Final Thoughts
 
This Men’s Health Month, let’s expand the conversation to include all survivors, regardless of one’s sex. Supporting male survivors of domestic and sexual violence doesn’t take away from women’s advocacy; it strengthens the fight against abuse for everyone.
 
Healing begins with being heard. Let’s create a culture where every voice, male or female, is believed, supported, and empowered.

 
Sources: 
Smith, S. G., Zhang, X., Basile, K. C., Merrick, M. T., Wang, J., Kresnow, M., & Chen, J. (2018).
The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (NISVS): 2015 data brief – Updated release.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/nisvs/about/index.html

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