What's the best way to respond to hearing about someone's past abuse?

My instinct is to just listen. Absorb. And be there for them.

I don't want to come off as I'm not really listening, but honestly it doesn't feel appropriate to say any of the generic responses many often respond with when they hear about someone's past suffering.

I don't even know if I should say "I'm sorry." Sometimes that's the only thing I want to say though, if anything.

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LadyWioness · 56-60, F

I dislike telling them it will be okay, because at the time, it didn't feel like it for them, and I would also be sure they knew that I care, and am willing to listen.
Platitudes are annoying, such as "it'll be okay." I would focus on being there with a listening ear so they know they're not alone.