After experiencing the trauma of abuse, it can be difficult for survivors to calm their racing thoughts or just relax, even in safe spaces. Many survivors also suffer from anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. That is why WIRC-Victim Services is hosting another self-care workshop for survivors of abuse that will offer self-soothing strategies and potential creative outlets that may be able to help.
The free workshop will be hosted on Saturday, September 17, 2022 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at a private location in Macomb, Illinois. WIRC-Victim Services takes the privacy, safety and confidentiality of survivors very seriously, and will only share the exact meeting location with people who contact their office to register before the event.
Program officials say the workshop is meant to be a safe, calming space that empowers survivors. Attendees are not required to participate in every activity; they can stand back or leave the room if they feel uncomfortable or want some time alone. Some of the day’s planned activities include calming exercises, trauma-informed yoga, art therapy activities, self-compassion tips, mindfulness strategies, and more.
The workshop is hosted by experienced domestic and sexual violence counselors and advocates of Victim Services, and they will be available to talk one-on-one with any participant that is feeling upset or wants to start talking about their experience.
Adult survivors of any ability, background, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender identity are welcome to attend.
To register, call Victim Services’ 24/7 free and confidential hotline at 309-837-5555. Future workshops may be held, depending on demand and available grant funding.
The workshop is funded in part by the Illinois Department of Human Services and the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority.
WIRC- Victim Services is a nonprofit agency based in Macomb, Illinois, that provides free and confidential crisis counseling, medical advocacy and legal advocacy to adult and child survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and/or stalking in multiple western Illinois counties. If you have experienced or witnessed abuse at any point in your life, you are welcome to call their free and confidential crisis hotline at 309-837-5555.
***Courtesy of WIRC-CAA***
