NOTE FROM TED: This talk contains a discussion of child sexual abuse and suicide. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/t...

Can you numb the effects of childhood sexual abuse and trauma your entire life? What options are available when you need support for childhood trauma as an adult? The good news is we can heal no matter our age and we can stop the cycle of abuse from affecting future generations and communities. Holly Perreault is a survivor of childhood sexual and emotional abuse. She first advocated for others at just fourteen years old by testifying against her abuser. Her belief is that finding your voice is the first step to breaking the cycles of abuse and living a life you love. Holly is a coach, advocate and storyteller. In 2018, Holly left her leadership job in the tech industry to relocate from the United States to Northern Ireland. Holly will soon graduate from Ulster University with her BSc in Therapeutic Communications and Counselling and co-facilitates the first Adult Survivor of Child Abuse (ASCA) meeting in Northern Ireland. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx