I'm sorry to hear that you've experienced abuse and trauma, and it's concerning that people are dismissing your experiences. There can be several reasons why some individuals may react this way, though it's essential to remember that their reactions do not diminish the significance of your experiences. Here are a few potential reasons why people might dismiss or downplay your abuse and trauma:
Lack of understanding: Some people may not fully grasp the impact and consequences of abuse and trauma. They might not have experienced such events themselves or lack the empathy and knowledge to understand the severity of your situation.
Discomfort with the topic: Abuse and trauma are difficult and uncomfortable subjects to discuss. Some individuals may dismiss or avoid the topic altogether because they don't know how to handle it or feel overwhelmed by the emotional weight of the conversation.
Denial or disbelief: In some cases, people might find it challenging to believe that such terrible things could happen, especially if the abuser is someone they know or trust. Denial is a coping mechanism for some people to avoid facing uncomfortable truths.
Victim-blaming mentality: Unfortunately, victim-blaming is a prevalent issue in society. People may consciously or unconsciously blame the victim, assuming they must have done something to provoke the abuse or that they are somehow responsible for what happened.
Fear of getting involved: Dealing with abuse and trauma can be complex and demanding. Some individuals might dismiss or minimize your experiences to avoid getting involved or feeling obligated to provide support.
Emotional detachment: Some people struggle with showing empathy or connecting emotionally with others, making it difficult for them to acknowledge and validate the pain you've experienced.
Cultural or societal attitudes: In certain cultures or societies, there might be a tendency to downplay or ignore discussions of abuse and trauma due to stigma, shame, or misconceptions about mental health.
Jealousy or competition: Sadly, some individuals might dismiss your experiences as a way to undermine your feelings and experiences, often out of jealousy or a desire to "one-up" you in their own struggles.
Regardless of the reasons behind their dismissive behavior, it's essential to remember that your experiences are valid and that seeking support from understanding and compassionate individuals, such as friends, family, or professionals, can be crucial in the healing process. If you encounter unsupportive reactions from people close to you, consider reaching out to a therapist, counselor, or support group to talk about your experiences and find validation and understanding. Your well-being and healing are essential, and there are people who will be willing to listen and support you through your journey.