The role of the me too Route in improving the health of gender based violence and isolating gender violence survivor

The health impacts of gender-based violence are widely known. Among the most frequently documented consequences are insomnia, digestive disorders, chronic fatigue, palpitations, migraines, appetite changes, dizziness, anxiety, and depression—symptoms that not only impair quality of life but, in many cases, persist for years after the violence has ceased.

However, recent research, such as that published in the journal Healthcare, has begun to identify a less explored dimension: the health effects of isolating gender violence. This is violence perpetrated against those who support victims (friends, professionals, teachers, co-workers, etc.) to cut off their emotional, institutional or social support networks. This isolating violence, which is still largely invisible in medical consultations and intervention protocols, contributes to deepening the isolation of victims and limiting their capacity for recovery. When gender-based violence is accompanied by isolating violence, the impact on health can be even more severe, and although it is mainly felt by the victim, it can also affect those who have supported them.

The good news is that science has also shown that early support can reverse some of this damage and reduce these physical and psychological consequences. In the study mentioned above, several survivors reported substantial improvements in their health after participating in the events of the ‘MeToo University Route’ initiative, where women who had suffered violence found a safe and supportive space. In their participation in the research, some reported feeling relief or remission of symptoms even two years after the Me Too events had taken place.

Another example is the case of eight female research fellows who reported being subjected to abuse of power in the academic environment by their superiors. During the period of this mistreatment, some developed symptoms consistent with serious health deterioration, as documented in medical reports. However, after breaking their silence and receiving institutional support, including the creation of a zero-tolerance violence commission and a protocol for action, many began to experience gradual improvement.

Unfortunately, measures aimed at stopping situations of potential abuse of power are not always well received. In this case, some individuals directly involved in these abuses of power, as well as others who disagreed with the decisions made, chose to leave the research group. Subsequently, messages have been circulated that have been perceived as attacks intended to discredit those who spoke out, with one of the strategies used being role reversal — presenting themselves as supposed “victims.” This strategy not only perpetuates violence and harm, but also sends a dangerous message to society: that speaking out can have negative consequences.

When a democratic society allows victims to be silenced or questioned, and their aggressors to present themselves as victims, it reinforces the fear of speaking out and hinders justice. This not only harms those who have already suffered violence, but also discourages others from reporting it in the future.

Gender-based violence not only harms individuals, it also sickens the institutions that allow or cover it up. Protecting victims and those who defend them is a public health intervention as necessary as any medical treatment. Only by creating safe environments where those who report violence are heard and supported will it be possible to heal the visible and invisible wounds left by violence.