Mo' Sibyl

성적 학대로부터의 치유|The One with Phyllis Leavitt - On Unveiling Silence and Healing from Sexual Abuse: Episode 22 (2023)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 성적 학대로부터의 치유|The One with Phyllis Leavitt - On Unveiling Silence and Healing from Sexual Abuse: Episode 22 (2023)

DISCLAIMER❗

This episode contains elements that some individuals may find disturbing and triggering. Viewer discretion is advised.

This week, we are excited to have retired psychologist and therapist Phyllis Leavitt join us on the show. With a background in psychology from Antioch University and experience as a co-Director of the Parents United sexual abuse treatment program in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Phyllis has been a professional psychotherapist for over 30 years. Her expertise lies in treating children, families, couples, and individuals, especially those dealing with dysfunctional family dynamics and the aftermath.

During our conversation, Phyllis and I delve into a challenging and sensitive topic – sexual abuse. We discuss its impact on both genders, share personal experiences, and shed light on negative societal norms and victim expectations. We address the issues of stigma and shame and break the silence surrounding this topic.

We emphasize the significance of speaking out about sexual abuse and how it can kickstart the healing journey. We also explore identifying behavioral tendencies in those who may have experienced sexual abuse. Phyllis offers insights into healing, including community engagement and pursuing hobbies.

Phyllis shares her motivations as an author and provides a glimpse into the content of her books. We also touch on how the government can support families and victims of sexual abuse.

As we wrap up the episode, we delve into the loneliness pandemic faced by sexual abuse victims, society's role in perpetuating stigma, and strategies for healing and moving forward, particularly for those from dysfunctional families. Phyllis even asks me why I became a podcaster – a question I've been asked several times!

Lastly, we discuss the possibility of having Phyllis back on the show for a panel session on suicide rates in prepubescent youth. Thank you for joining us for this engaging and insightful episode.

Be Well,

Mo!

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: The One with Olabimpe Shode - On Suicide - Inspired by tWitch’s Story

2022 has been quite the year. As we wrap it up, Bimpe and I thought to share our thoughts on a critical topic – suicide inspired by a recent event. A few weeks ago, Stephen "tWitch" Boss, aged 40, a husband, father, DJ, and former executive producer of "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" died by suicide. Though we both don't have any personal ties to him, the news of his demise affected us. Suicide rates have peaked in recent years due to COVID, and men, especially Black men, have been reported to be at a higher risk. So, here's a reminder to check in on them.

In this episode, we shared our collective experiences with suicide, near brushes, and those we lost through it. In her book, Stay: A History of Suicide and the Philosophies Against It, Jennifer Michael Hecht said, "Suicides happen in clusters, with one person's suicide influencing the other's. If a parent commits suicide, his or her children are three times as likely to do so at some point in their lives. People in the act of committing suicide may feel isolated, but, in fact, they are deeply connected to those around." As Hecht put it, if you want your loved ones to make it through their dark nights, you have to make it through yours.'

And if you are reading this at a very tender and vulnerable moment, we are here to remind you that you are needed here with us. So consider staying; you are not forgotten! We are rooting for you. Stay.

Happy New Year!

Love ya!

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: The One with Theresa

Warning: This episode contains messages that might be disturbing to some listeners – especially those who have experienced one form of child sexual abuse or the other.

This was easily the most difficult episode I have worked on this podcast. The prevalence of child sexual abuse is one that cannot be ignored (especially in a country like Nigeria with its burgeoning population and lax rules). Why? Because abused children grow up to become adults who may suffer from mental health issues ranging from substance abuse, personality disorders, conflict in romantic or interpersonal relationships, to eating disorders. Of all the things that can be done to you, rape is probably one of the worse because it is your body and you have to carry it along for the rest of your life; there is no escaping from it. Even when you try to physically escape from it, the body (and brain) always keep the score.

In this episode, I discussed these issues at length with a longtime friend and a lawyer – Theresa Odigie. As an author, Theresa uses her words to rescue people from grief, insecurities, or anything that poses as a stronghold in one's life. Follow her on Instagram as Theresa.odigie.