Breaking the Silence: Addressing the Needs of Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse leaves lasting scars on survivors, yet one group remains largely invisible in public discussions and policy decisions—male survivors. In Vancouver, men who have experienced sexual violence face significant barriers to support, including stigma, limited resources, and systemic gaps in mental health care, housing, and employment.

Sherry Soltani – Local Journalism Initiative

Addressing this overlooked issue is critical to building a more inclusive and supportive community. Volunteer host Poran Porgebal has invited Mason Shell (MCP, RCC), Executive Director of BC Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse, and Sherry Noor, Victim Services Coordinator, to discuss these challenges and the civic concerns surrounding male survivors in Vancouver, B.C.

Mason Shell highlights the growing willingness of men to share their experiences but stresses the severe lack of services tailored for them. Many survivors struggle to find support and often feel isolated due to societal expectations that discourage men from expressing vulnerability. He explains that while general resources for trauma exist, very few specifically address male survivors’ unique needs. Mason points out that concerns for male survivors extend beyond any geographical area, and in his talks with stakeholders across Canada, he consistently hears about the challenges this population faces.

Sherry Noor, a victim service coordinator, shares her experiences working with male survivors and describes the additional hurdles they face in seeking help. She explains that many are hesitant to disclose their abuse, fearing disbelief or judgment. Some are also reluctant to engage with the legal system due to the overwhelming amount of paperwork and complex procedures involved. She emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, supportive space where survivors feel encouraged to come forward.

The discussion touches on gender disparities in support services. While men generally hold societal advantages, Mason points out that this privilege does not extend to situations involving domestic violence and sexual abuse. Many men who try to access services are met with skepticism or find that available programs are designed primarily for women. He notes that even though male survivors exist in significant numbers, their needs are often ignored in policy discussions and funding decisions.

Sherry underscores the importance of advocacy in ensuring male survivors receive proper support. She shares the story of a newcomer to Canada who faced significant challenges in accessing resources due to language barriers and cultural stigma. This highlights the need for more inclusive and culturally sensitive services that acknowledge the diverse experiences of survivors.

The conversation also addresses how Indigenous and marginalized communities navigate these issues. Mason points out that while some Indigenous communities have strong mental health practices rooted in their traditions, these resources are often unavailable to male survivors in urban settings. The guests agree that mainstream support systems should learn from these approaches to improve services for all survivors.

Psychological and physical effects of sexual abuse are another major topic. Many survivors suffer from depression, anxiety, PTSD, and even unexplained chronic pain without realizing their trauma’s impact on their bodies. Mason discusses how traditional concepts of masculinity make it difficult for men to acknowledge and process their emotions, leading to further isolation and emotional distress.

Sherry and Mason both stress the need for continued advocacy, education, and systemic change. They call for more funding, policy shifts, and awareness campaigns to break the silence surrounding male survivors.

The discussion ends with a shared commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment where all survivors, regardless of gender, feel heard and validated.

To wrap up the program, Poran invites the public to join this discussion. Healthcare workers and practitioners working with male survivors could benefit from understanding more about the civic concerns affecting them.