I would say that I am definately a survivor of verbal and emotional abuse. As a kid, I was different -- I still am. I wore/wear hearing aids, and had troubles with my nose. Kids just loved picking on me about that. It was elementary school -- I cannot remember one good moment. The kids were such jerks.

The teachers were no better! When I would try telling them what was happening, they just thought I was just getting attention. Somehow everything was always MY fault --everything. The teachers just loved blaming everything on me.

One day, I was swarmed by a large group of bigger kids (everyone was bigger than me). I didnt tell anyone. I was too embarassed, and I just knew that nothing would happen if I did tell. My parents found out about it from another mom, who's kid went to the same school. They felt terrible, they had no idea. They did go to the principle (another major FKG ASHL) But of course, nothing came of it. Just as I thought. Nobody gave a %#@&#! about me in that sh*thole.

Needless to say, I felt that I was damaged after that. I had almost no self esteem to speak of. Years and years of being scapegoated, yelled at (yes, by the teachers), being treated like dirt or a thorn in their shoe.

Thank god in high school, people left me the FK alone! I'd rather be ignored than treated like a thorn in someones shoe.

I'm glad I've shared this. It's probably nothing compared to what some of you have gone through. I hope I havent triggered anyone. Well, thanks for listening.

--Desiree