In Her Own Words

To those who follow in my footsteps... 

• It’s hard work, but don’t give up!
• Take your time.
• Ask for help and guidance.
• Talk to people who have been through sexual abuse.
• Know that you aren’t alone.
• Be a little more honest each time, especially with your feelings.
• Keep coming back to support group! 

Generated by Support Group members, who create a circle of honest, warm, nonjudgmental support.

Healing is... 

• Letting safe people "in."
• Not allowing the sexual abuse to define and label me.
• Not craving drugs and alcohol (to numb the pain).
• Not turning “negative” feelings inward on myself.
• Learning to be comfortable with my feelings.
• Learning to express my feelings.
• Telling the Truth.
• Overcoming my fear of abandonment.

Generated by Support Group members, who are courageously working on all of these things.

When it feels overwhelming... 

• Don’t give up!
• Keep breathing
• Call a friend, your counsellor, or a crisis line.
• Call all three if you need to!
• Cry.
• Sleep.
• Watch movies.
• Write poetry, journal.
• Go hang out with friends.
• Ask for help!
• Go for a walk/run.
• Pet your cat/dog, or a friend’s.
• Eat ice cream.
• Take a shower/bath to relax.
• Remember – these feelings will pass!
• Remember – feelings can’t kill us!
• Remember – it’s not your fault!

Generated by Support Group members, who find the courage to walk their healing paths.

During my healing process, I learned...

• The abuse was not my fault.
• I am not alone.
• I am a strong, resilient person.
• I can speak up for myself.
• I deserve to focus on my healing. 

Generated by Support Group members, who are courageously living this Truth. We are gratefully acknowledge permission of the following website for this resource: http://www.thehealingcenter.org/survivors/for-survivors-from-survivors.aspx