In this episode of 'Why Be Silent,' host Shannon Vincent delves into the crucial and often misunderstood topic of human trafficking. Recorded in the aftermath of Human Trafficking Awareness Month, the episode seeks to clarify misconceptions prevalent in mainstream media and popular culture.

Listeners are guided through a comprehensive understanding of what human trafficking truly entails, including its various forms and the harsh realities faced by victims. The discussion highlights significant statistics, outlines the differing types of trafficking, and sheds light on the diverse backgrounds of both victims and perpetrators.

Throughout the episode, Shannon emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs of trafficking and explores concrete steps that both professionals and community members can take to aid potential victims. Including insights from previous episodes on sexual assault exams, she consolidates the information into a guide to intervention and support.

Engage with this enlightening episode to deepen your understanding and learn how to be part of the solution in combatting human trafficking within your community.

Human Trafficking | What is Human Trafficking?

Victims/Survivors | Human Trafficking | Office for Victims of Crime

Impact - Human Trafficking Search

Welcome to this insightful episode of "Why Be Silent," hosted by Shannon Vincent. Joined by forensic nurse examiner Shellie Kiesler, the episode dives into the essential roles of forensic nurses in the aftermath of sexual assault. Focusing on adult protocols, Shannon and Shellie discuss national guidelines for sexual assault forensic exams, emphasizing the victim's choice and medical priorities.

The episode highlights the importance of informed consent, the nuances of collecting evidence, and the reality that forensic examinations do not determine whether a sexual assault occurred. It also addresses the logistics of evidence collection, medical care, and the availability of victim support services.

With an emphasis on patient empowerment, this episode is a vital resource for understanding the support systems available for victims and the critical role of forensic nursing in delivering compassionate and comprehensive care.

International Association of Forensic Nurses - Research.Educate.Lead

A National Protocol for Sexual Assault Medical Forensic Examinations - Adults/Adolescents Third Edition

In this episode of "Why Be Silent," host Shannon Vincent explores the topic of Adverse Childhood Experience Scores (ACEs) and their profound impact on our lives. Discover what ACEs are, the types of traumatic experiences they encompass, and the alarming prevalence of ACEs among adults and high school students in the U.S.

Shannon delves into the long-term health consequences of ACEs, including heart disease, depression, and chronic illnesses, highlighting the crucial role of prevention. Learn about the significant economic burden ACEs-related health issues impose on society, costing billions annually.

Prevention and intervention are key themes as Shannon discusses the importance of creating safe, stable, and nurturing environments for children, as well as the role community organizations can play. Join the conversation on promoting positive childhood experiences, supporting families, and breaking the cycle of adversity.

About Adverse Childhood Experiences | Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) | CDC

https://youtu.be/95ovIJ3dsNk

Resources:

Early Head Start

Adults and Children Together Against Violence: Parents Raising Safe Kids (ACT)

SafeCare

The Incredible Years

Welcome to this episode of Why be Silent with Shannon Vincent, where we delve into the complexities of the neurobiology of trauma and its profound impact on sexual assault survivors. As a forensic nurse examiner, Shannon sheds light on how trauma affects the brain, influencing victims' physical and psychological responses.

Join us as we explore key hormones like opioids, oxytocin, catecholamines, and cortisol, and their roles in the fight, flight, freeze, flop, and fawn responses. Shannon emphasizes the importance of understanding these responses to support survivors effectively.

Highlighting the vital need for trauma-informed care, Shannon discusses how professionals can create safe, supportive environments for survivors, ensuring their voices are heard and believed. This episode is a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of trauma's impact and how best to assist those affected.

The Neurobiology of Trauma Part 1

The Neurobiology of Trauma Part 2

In the debut episode of "Why Be Silent," forensic nurse examiner Shannon Vincent courageously delves into the harsh realities of society's most taboo topics: sexual assault, domestic violence, human trafficking, elder abuse, and more. Shannon shares her journey as a forensic nurse and her mission to break the silence surrounding these issues, emphasizing the importance of spreading awareness and support for victims.

Listeners are urged to confront the uncomfortable truths surrounding these issues. Shannon provides insight into her forensic training, the challenges faced by victims, and the crucial need for community involvement to bring about change.

As Shannon discusses daunting statistics and societal misconceptions, she encourages everyone to become informed and proactive in their communities, supporting victims and working towards prevention. This episode serves as a call to action for listeners to be part of the solution, advocating for resource sharing, victim support, and ultimately, a cultural shift towards open dialogue and understanding.

References:

Sexual Assault Statistics | National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC)

https://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/grants/213503.pdf

http://www.unicef.org/protection/files/BehindClosedDoo

http://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/pdf/cdc_nisvs_overview_insert_final-a.pdf

https://www.thehotline.org/stakeholders/domestic-violence-statistics/https://ovc.ojp.gov/2023-report-nation/elder-abuse-financial-exploitation

https://humantraffickinghotline.org/en/statistics