The Block star Norm Hogan has revealed he’s seeking treatment at a mental health facility to deal with the trauma of childhood sexual abuse after it began to affect his relationship with partner Jess Eva.
**CONTENT WARNING: This article contains references to sexual assault and may be distressing to some readers.**
Posting on Instagram, The Block winner got candid on finally seeking help after he was sexually abused as a child in the hopes that his story may help others who are also struggling.
“I’ve been to a mental hospital for 3 weeks to sought [sic] my shit out. I was sexually abused as a kid at school,” Norm explained.
He continued: “I haven’t spoken about it because I was stupidly embarrassed or thought there was something wrong with me.
“The reason I am writing this is that it might actually help others to seek help.”
The 44-year-old added that the ongoing trauma from the abuse had taken a major toll on his relationship with his partner Jess, with whom he has two children.
“She has stood by me as me [sic] best mate and been my rock and I’m so grateful. I am trying to fix what I’ve put her through but we are side by side doing [sic] it together,” he continued.
The Block’s Norm Hogan encourages others to “speak up” about mental health and sexual abuse
The Block favourite then reached out to others who may have faced similar hardships.
“I just want everyone to know that it is not weak, don’t be embarrassed to talk about shit that has happened to you or how you are feeling.”
He also offered some sage advice for couples going through a difficult period in their relationships.
“Sometimes love and friendship is about having hard conversations that we don’t want to hear,” he wrote.
“It’s not about just the good times it’s about your partner not excepting that you can live a life of anxiety and depression and fighting for your happiness when ya don’t know what happiness is.”
He concluded: “And that was the hardest part to except [sic]. If you’re a partner don’t give up on us but be firm and don’t put up with being mistreated. If you’re a victim SPEAK UP AND BE HEARD.”
The heartwrenching post was flooded with messages from fans and celebs alike, with Grant Denyer praising the reality star for speaking out on such a difficult topic.
“In awe of you Norm putting your health first… and well done Jess. We blokes find going inward a very difficult process and I can’t imagine what he’s had to deal with. I applaud you both,” the TV personality commented.
The Block star Jess Eva speaks out in support of partner Norm Hogan
Following Norm’s heartbreaking post, Triple M host Jess shared his post to her own social media saying she was “so proud” of her partner.
“You spoke your truth, that you were so scared to do for so long. I pray your voice will help those that feel voiceless,” she said.
“I hope that your courage to speak out will inspire those to realise there is hope. Not giving up on the father of your children, your best mate and the legend that is you, is easy.”
She went on to throw her unwavering support behind Norm, adding, “This is about you! You’ve done the hard work, you’ve lived through the trauma. This is your time to regain your power.”
Jess then offered her support to anyone else who is struggling.
“To those that are suffering in silence, we are listening!! To those that think there’s no hope there is. You aren’t suffering alone!”
We wish Norm and Jess all the best as he seeks treatment.
If you or someone you know needs help, please contact BeyondBlue on 1300 224 636 or Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you or someone you know has been the victim of a sexual assault, please contact the Sexual Assault & Domestic Violence National Help Line on 1800 Respect (1800 737 732) or head toThe Australian Human Rights Commission for a list of state-by-state resources.
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