Steve Simpson: From Survivor to Advocate - A Journey of Healing and Accountability
The worst thing you're doing is telling your kids they could have maybe avoided the abuse. And what happens then is that the child eventually thinks these things have to be right about me.
Imagine facing the darkest chapters of your life and emerging not just as a survivor but as a beacon of hope for others. That's precisely what Steve Simpson has done. In this episode of 'Stop Child Abuse Now' (SCAN), Steve opens up about his harrowing experiences with child abuse and his path to thriving in its aftermath. Hosted by Victoria Kelly, this conversation is both raw and inspiring, shedding light on the urgent need for accountability and consequences for abusers.
Steve, who hails from New York City, is not just an abuse survivor; he's an award-winning child advocate who has dedicated his life to helping others. He introduces his book, 'The Teenage and Young Adult Survival Handbook', a vital resource tackling issues like suicide, bullying, physical and verbal abuse, self-worth, and addiction. Through his personal narrative, Steve underscores the importance of support systems and having someone who believes in you.
One of the most striking points Steve makes is about the detrimental impact of telling children they could have avoided abuse. This harmful notion can lead to deep-seated feelings of self-blame and worthlessness. Instead, he emphasizes the need for parents to seek help if they are struggling with codependency or other issues that might affect their children. The episode also delves into the often-overlooked topic of verbal abuse.
Steve shares how it eroded his self-worth and stresses the importance of recognizing and addressing it. He encourages parents to take bullying seriously and be proactive in seeking help for their children if needed. Steve's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of accountability. His story offers hope and practical advice for survivors, their families, and advocates.
Tune in to hear how Steve turned his pain into purpose and learn about the resources available for those on their own healing journeys.