A simple sorry doesn’t cut it: Saheefa Jabbar’s powerful video tackles abuse

Actor highlights how drawing boundaries is both hard and crucial for survivors

In a world where the silent struggles of numerous individuals against various forms of abuse persist, the journey to recovery and liberation is not just a challenging path but a crucial one. Pakistani actor and model Saheefa Jabbar Khattak recently addressed this malevolence in a thought-provoking social media message that has garnered widespread attention.

In a poignant video shared on Instagram, Saheefa takes viewers through her evolving reactions to the oft-used apology tactic by abusers. The video exposes the inadequacy of a simple sorry, often employed to downplay intentional or inadvertent acts that continue to inflict harm. The montage concludes with Saheefa breaking down and emphatically mouthing the words, "Enough."

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Saheefa Jabbar Khattak (@saheefajabbarkhattak)

Accompanying the video, Saheefa's caption delivers a powerful message, acknowledging the complexity and significance of asserting oneself and setting boundaries. She underscores the profound impact of abuse, stating, "Going through mental, emotional, spiritual, sexual, physical, or verbal abuse messes you up inside and out. It’s not just tough; it’s like your soul is taking a beating."

Saheefa delves into the common misconception that love or change can remedy the damage caused, debunking it with a firm stance: "But trust me, a simple sorry doesn’t cut it." She gently emphasises the difficulty survivors face in taking decisive actions while underscoring the absolute necessity of doing so: "Taking brave steps? Yeah, it’s hard, but you gotta do it to protect yourself. Nobody should mess with your safe space or abuse you in any way. It’s time to break free from this mess."

Known for utilizing her platform for mental health advocacy, Saheefa has received widespread acclaim for addressing the issue with candidness and a personal touch. By openly sharing her struggles with mental health challenges like burnout and depression, the actor challenges societal dismissal and stigma, dispelling assumptions that even individuals who appear 'happy' can confront such adversities. Through her impactful message, Saheefa continues to contribute to breaking the silence surrounding abuse and fostering a culture of empowerment and understanding.

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