Mariska Hargitay Shares Her Healing Journey Through Therapy After Surviving Trauma

Mariska Hargitay recently appeared at the 18th Annual Hope For Depression Research Foundation seminar, revealing that she found extraordinary therapists who significantly aided her recovery from trauma. Growing up, Hargitay faced personal challenges, losing her mother, Jayne Mansfield, in a tragic car accident at the age of three. The event honed her understanding of trauma, compounded later in life by surviving sexual trauma herself. This breadth of experience inspired her to establish the Joyful Heart Foundation, which supports survivors of sexual violence and reflects her commitment to healing, PEOPLE reported.

At the seminar, Hargitay addressed the audience with her characteristic humor, despite the serious context of her work as Olivia Benson on "Law & Order: SVU.". She joked about her honorary doctorate from John Jay University amidst top psychiatrists, underscoring her usual cheerfulness against adversity. Recognizing the importance of understanding trauma’s cellular impact, she emphasized the transformative effect of innovative therapeutic techniques like somatic experiencing, EMDR, and internal family systems.

These methods allowed her the space to heal, restructuring her life and affirming her mission through Joyful Heart, dedicated to advocating for sexual violence awareness – an epidemic she couldn't believe wasn't more commonly discussed. Receiving the Hope Award for Depression Advocacy from foundation founder Audrey Gruss marked another milestone in intertwining personal healing and broader advocacy goals.

As Hargitay expressed gratitude for those supporting her journey and aiding in integrating various trauma experiences, she shared wisdom reflecting on vulnerability as she enters her 60s. By aligning with the seminar's mission of discussing modern trauma recovery, she highlighted how her foundation continues uplifting diverse survivor stories and experiences, demonstrating a commitment to de-stigmatizing this crucial global issue. Ultimately, she urged resilient self-compassion, advising her younger self to embrace vulnerability amid struggles shared by many.

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