| Sexual abuse |  |
Sexual abuse is frighteningly common and yet rarely spoken about. It is any sexual behaviour directed toward a person who is powerless to prevent it. It may be an isolated or a recurrent event, and may or may not involve physical contact. The abuser may be a relative, an acquaintance or a total stranger.
There may not necessarily be any lasting or obvious physical effects of sexual abuse, but the psychological effects can be devastating. These can show themselves in many different ways.
Sometimes the experience of abuse appears to be wholly or partially forgotten for some years, often well into adulthood. But when memories finally resurface they may trigger intense feelings of fear and despair.
As with human response to any trauma, the degree of the reaction can vary widely between individuals.
If you have experienced sexual abuse you are probably no stranger to private feelings of worthlessness and shame. You may have even considered suicide.
Intrusive memories, flashbacks, nightmares, or sleep abnormalities are common. It may be hard for you to trust others and you may feel afraid or mistrustful of your feelings. Forming healthy sexual relationships may have been difficult or impossible to this point. Perhaps you blame yourself for the past and feel deeply embarrassed about seeking help. You may even feel stigmatised by what happened to you.
Often the first step in healing from sexual abuse involves recognising that some type of violation occurred. So if you think you may have been sexually abused, speaking to a counsellor may be extremely helpful in the healing process.
Counselling can help you find solutions you may not have thought of and find ways to take back control of your life. It provides the opportunity to talk through painful experiences in a safe and respectful environment. It can be a huge relief to no longer have to live with secrets. You can tell your story and explore your thoughts and feelings about it in a safe place where you can be yourself and not be judged or blamed.
You can also learn more about the issues that are affecting you and gain support with decision-making and choices. I may be able to help you explore solutions you haven't thought of.
Counselling can be the first step towards healing. It may be frightening or embarrassing at first but the results will be infinitely rewarding.
Please contact me to talk in confidence, or simply call me on 0412 466 426