When the Headlines Bring Back Old Memories

Warning: This article discusses sexual assault and trauma.

The recent sexual assault allegations involving Cornell University are deeply disturbing. For some people following the coverage, the story may also bring up something much more personal.

When stories like this dominate the headlines, it's easy to focus on the details, the people involved, and the questions about how something like this could happen. But for someone who has experienced sexual assault or another form of violence, the impact of that coverage may extend well beyond the story itself.

Sometimes, a headline, a detail, or even a conversation about what's happening can bring back thoughts and feelings from an experience you haven't thought about in years.

When a Current Story Brings Back an Old One

Maybe you've experienced something similar. Maybe someone close to you has. Maybe you supported someone through what came afterward. And now a story like Cornell's is suddenly everywhere.

Perhaps you notice you're having trouble concentrating. You're more irritable than usual. You're sleeping differently. Something you haven't thought about in years keeps coming to mind. Or you simply feel off and it takes a while to connect that feeling to what you've been reading or hearing.

Sometimes the Tools Need a Tune-Up

This can be particularly unsettling when you thought you had already worked through something. A reaction in the present can feel like you've somehow gone backward, even when the skills, perspective, and progress you've built are still there.

You may have gone months or years without thinking much about what happened. Therapy may have helped. The coping tools you learned may still work. And yet, a particular story, detail, or conversation can bring some of those thoughts or feelings back.

Sometimes the tools you already have are enough. Maybe you recognize what's happening and step away from some of the coverage. SAMHSA recommends limiting news consumption when repeated coverage is increasing anxiety or causing someone to relive a traumatic event. Maybe you return to coping strategies that have helped before. Maybe you talk to someone you trust.

And sometimes you may need additional support. That might mean scheduling a session with a therapist you haven't seen in a while. It could mean contacting your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or a peer support team, if one is available.

You don't have to wait until you're in crisis to reach out.

Sometimes recognizing that you need a little more support isn't a sign that you're back where you started. It may simply mean something hit close to home, you noticed, and you're responding to what you need now.

If You're Struggling

If the Cornell coverage, or any other story involving sexual violence, is bringing something up for you, confidential support is available. The RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline provides free, confidential, 24/7 support for people affected by sexual violence. Call 800-656-HOPE (4673), text HOPE to 64673, or use RAINN's online chat.

If you are experiencing significant emotional distress, thoughts of suicide, or a mental health or substance-use crisis, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.

You can also reconnect with a therapist, counselor, EAP professional, or another trained professional you already trust.