Resources to Start
Starting Your Healing Journey
Beginning to look at a history of having been sexually abused as a child may feel daunting at first. It may be difficult to consider that events that happened so long ago may be impacting you today, or that they were abusive. It may feel scary, not knowing what the process of healing entails. It may feel unfair that this is an issue that you have to deal with. All of these feelings are valid.
If it’s helpful to you, here are some things to think about at this stage of the healing journey:
- You are not alone. 1 in 5 adults have experienced sexual abuse as children. This is a huge health issue for men, women and people of all gender identities.
- It wasn’t your fault. You didn’t ask for this. No matter how long ago the abuse occurred, the age you are now, or how much time passed in between, you deserve a process to heal.
- It’s your choice if, when and how you want to step toward this issue in your own life. There are no “should’s” or “have to’s.” Many adult survivors find that the healing journey brings a lot of benefits to their lives, though it is certainly not easy all along the way. Many share that it does get easier over time.
- You have a right to pursue your healing journey, if you decide to do so. Having strong support and resources around you can help make the journey easier.
- We’re here to support you all along the way.
Healing