Applause To Ellen For Her Openness Around Sexual Abuse

ATLANTA () -- The Mautner project applauds Ellen Degeneres for sharing her experience as a survivor of sexual molestation. Disclosure of Ellen's traumatic experience helps lesbian victims of sexual violence find needed support

Kathleen DeBold, executive director of the Mautner Project, the National Lesbian Health Organization, states that "Ellen DeGeneres' recent revelation that she was molested as a teenager is a brave step for the openly lesbian TV star and talk show host. In addition to the physical trauma, sexual violence exacts a devastating emotional toll that can manifest as anger, depression, feelings of guilt, worthlessness or helplessness, crying spells, and nightmares."

"The emotional impact of childhood sex abuse is often magnified when the victim is a lesbian. The misconception held by some that molestation can 'make' a child grow up to be gay leads many lesbians to hide the fact that they have been abused," DeBold further explains.

"Talking about abuse is often the first step to finding help and restoring a sense of well being, and DeGeneres' openness about her traumatic experience at the hands of her stepfather will make that first step easier for thousands of women and girls. By letting victims of sexual violence know they aren't alone and that it's okay to talk about what happened, DeGeneres has once again helped countless individuals of all genders and sexual orientations find the courage to tell their stories."

"The Mautner Project extends our support, encouragement, and admiration to Ellen for coming out about her past as a victim of molestation. We are very hopeful that Ellen's brave stance in sharing her story about her childhood abuse will influence other lesbians who are victims of sexual abuse to start a healthy dialogue and seek professional assistance and support on their journey to healing."

The Mautner Project improves the health of lesbians and their families through advocacy, education, research, and direct service. They envision a healthcare system that is guided by social justice and responsive to the needs of all people.