Trigger warning: This article contains mentions of child abuse and sexual abuse.
Former actress Michelle Madrigal bravely revealed her traumatic childhood to raise awareness against sexual violence.
On her Instagram account, Michelle bared her personal story about being a victim of sexual abuse. She mentioned that only those close to her know her story as a survivor of sexual abuse.
According to Madrigal, she became a victim at a young age when her “innocence was taken away” and endured the trauma for several years.
“To be completely transparent, I endured sexual abuse at a tender age for a number of years, a time when my innocence was cruelly taken, leading to a tumultuous adolescence,” she shared.
She admitted that she had no idea she was going through post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), defined by the health website Mayo Clinic as a mental health condition “triggered by a terrifying event, either experiencing it or witnessing it.”
Her awareness only came when she consulted with a therapist at the age of 20. It was during this time that she gained clarity about her rebellious phase that followed after the abuse because “shame and self-blame consumed me for years.”
“I was angry, indifferent, seeking solace in drugs and alcohol to escape the overwhelming emotions, unworthiness, and fear. I often questioned why it happened to me,” she recalled.
Michelle shared that she will use her voice to help fellow survivors and assist them in their healing journey by promoting a fundraising project led by Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), the largest nonprofit anti-sexual assault organization in the U.S.
“My purpose in life is clear: to support survivors. I’ve always yearned to use my voice for a greater cause, and my mission is to help one survivor at a time feel acknowledged and secure, reassuring them that their story is significant,” Madrigal explained.
Moreover, as a mother, she affirmed her responsibility to educate her daughter, Anika, about serious issues such as abuse.
“Past generations often lacked the knowledge or tools to address such issues, often sweeping them under the rug in different cultures. Many children don’t feel safe enough to confide in anyone, let alone their parents, about their experiences,” Michelle said.
“I’m determined to change that narrative, to extend a helping hand, and foster an environment where openness and support prevail,” she added.
The US-based celebrity mom shared information about RAINN, which welcomes contributions for their educational initiatives, awareness campaigns, and various advocacy projects.
Michelle is currently based in Texas and now works as a realtor.
