Trish's Story (04:27)

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Trish describes a male relative assaulting her the day of a funeral; he tricks her into going to his house and then attacks. Trish talks him out of rape and gives him a ride back to the funeral.

Niamh's Story (04:13)

Niamh describes a man breaking into her house and becoming the victim of a brutal assault. After she is sure he leaves, she calls the police.

After an Assault (04:55)

Trish recalls driving around town and eventually deciding to talk with a priest. Niamh recalls talking to the police and going to the hospital.

Effects of Assault (04:24)

Trish recalls feeling isolated and alone, and contemplating suicide. Brutal attacks affect every part of a victim’s life; Niamh experiences panic attacks after the assault.

Victim Blaming (02:05)

Trish reports her attacker, but receives negative attention. Most people she encounters blame her for the attack and are angry.

Support Systems (01:55)

A woman speaks with Niamh about her assault. Niamh discusses the town searching for her attacker, support, and overdosing on pills.

Courtroom Experiences (02:51)

Trish describes her experience as hostile and traumatic. The defense attorney tries to discredit Trish and is aggressive during questioning. Niamh recalls feeling enabled; the rapist receives a 18 year prison sentence.

Varied Responses (03:12)

Niamh says there is no wrong way to talk to a rape victim when trying to help. Trish discusses other people's fear and their belief she was responsible; things do not improve after her attacker is sentenced.

Family Support (04:20)

Niamh’s younger brother talks to her about her assault and courtroom experience. They drive to the house where Niamh was attacked; she is nostalgic about the house instead of relating it to horror.

Escaping Harassment (04:34)

Trish recalls not wanting to be in town and receiving death threats; she has moved thirteen times. Niamh discusses teaching and receiving community support.

Therapy (05:02)

Trish's counselor suggests group therapy; she resents victim blaming. Trish says the impact of the attack has decreased over the years.

Credits: Unbreakable: Surviving Trauma: Part 1 (00:55)

Credits: Unbreakable: Surviving Trauma: Part 1