Sexual violence against men: Berlin offers urgently needed help!

Sexual violence against men: Berlin offers urgently needed help!

There is a counseling center in Berlin called MUT that specifically looks after men who have experienced sexual violence. This is an issue that often remains in the shadows as many men are hesitant to seek help for social reasons. Lukas Moretti and Stefan Schröder, the facility's two dedicated employees, know about the challenges their clients face. The male self-image, which is often characterized by strength and invulnerability, has a strong impact on the willingness to talk about violence experienced. “ daily news reports that men who have experienced sexual violence rarely seek help.

This violence can originate from childhood or adolescence, but adults are also affected and report crossing boundaries in clubs, through drug use or within relationships. The forms of violence often range from unwanted touching and manipulation to more serious assaults, such as oral or anal sex, which often occur in the family environment or by trusted people such as trainers in a sports club.

Offers from the MUT advisory center

The MUT advice center not only offers a contact point for advice, but also the opportunity for anonymity. Any man who feels they have been a victim of sexual violence can contact MUT. Accompanying persons may be brought along to make it easier to get started. Moretti and Schröder currently look after around 30 to 35 men and advise around 100 affected people every year. Despite existing waiting lists, the first interviews are usually organized within a week.

Another goal of MUT is to raise awareness among experts and educate the public. The topic is still inadequately addressed and many men feel alone with their experiences.

Support for those affected

The assistance is not just intended for adults. The National infoline, network and contact point on sexual violence against girls and boys (N.I.N.A. e.V.) offers support for those affected, relatives and specialists. The sexual abuse helpline can be reached on 0800 22 55 530 and is available to anyone who has questions or is concerned about sexual violence. There is also the option of anonymous online advice. The counselors are psychologically and pedagogically trained and are subject to strict confidentiality guidelines.

MUT’s counseling services are particularly important for men who have experienced sexual violence. Support ranges from information about stigma and trauma to practical tips for dealing with emotional challenges. Hilfefuerjungs.de comprehensively describes the services offered regardless of residential status, nationality or sexual orientation. The consultation is free and confidential.

This makes it clear that although there are already offers of support in Berlin, greater financial security is needed. Because many men who suffer from social taboos need more visibility, and their experiences should not continue to remain hidden.