Sexual Abuse Support Group
Sexual abuse is a relative cultural term used to describe sexual relations and behavior between two or more parties which are considered criminally and/or morally offensive. Different types of sexual abuse involve: Non-consensual, forced physical sexual behavior such as rape, incest or sexual assault, or psychological forms of abuse, such as verbal sexual behavior or...
im not sure how to go about getting help. I’m 18 and still love with my parents. I’m not yet comfortable sharing with them what has happened to me. I want to seek help and start treatment so I will know how to deal with my emotions regarding my sexual abuse. How did you go about getting help? Who did you tell and how did you react to saying what happened out loud and to someone in real life. I’ve told close friends over text. Never said what happened to myself or to anyone face to face or outloud. I’m afraid it will seem too real. I’m still waiting to realize nothing actually happened, as mine was in my early childhood. I want help but I don’t know how to ask for it.
I believe it's important that you tell the right people, not just anyone, because not everyone wants to hear about sexual abuse. A negative response can leave us blaming ourselves and feeling worse,
Rainn is a good resource, as suggested, and so are some of the other resources mentioned below:
Survivors Healing Center
is in CA and was started by Ellen Bass, the author of an important book you may want to read (The Courage to Heal). Their website is www.survivorshealingcenter.org
Even if you're not in CA this is a place to start asking questions and talking with someone.
12-Step programs for survivors.
Check online for locations.
These are peer-led groups.
Stop It Now
Has a helpline 888-prevent
www.stopitnow.org
Can help you with questions you have about sexual abuse.
Sidran Institute
www.sidran.org
410 825-8888 x 203
helps people understand, treat, and recover from trauma.
You can heal.
xx
SuzA