Women Sexual Assault Centre
CRISIS + INFO LINE
250.383.3232
Home » Get Help » In Her Own Words
  
 
 
 
 

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