The Role of the MeToo Route in Improving the Health of Gender-Based Violence and Isolating Gender Violence Survivors

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The scientific literature has provided evidence on the negative health effects experienced by those who suffer gender-based violence (GBV) and isolating gender violence (IGV), the latter being a form of retaliation against those who support GBV victims. However, less attention has been paid to the potential health improvements following the initial support received by victims. Methods: This study examines the positive health outcomes among survivors of GBV and IGV after they engaged with the "MeToo route," an initiative of the MeToo movement aimed at raising awareness about gender violence and fostering solidarity through support networks that traveled through 13 Spanish universities through more than 20 events in September 2022. Results: Using communicative methodology, survivors shared how their health, previously harmed by their experiences of violence, improved as a result of the support provided after knowing the MeToo support network. Conclusions: The findings highlight the crucial role of solidarity networks in alleviating the health impacts of GBV and IGV and underscore the importance of effective support systems for recovery.