Welcome tulipsintexas. You've posted exactly right, so please don't worry about that.

You are not alone. Many survivors of childhood sexual abuse have difficulty with adult relationships and intimacy. There are specific trauma programs designed to address these issues, but I don't know if there are aany in your area. You might try talking to your counsellor about trauma specific counselling.

As for friends and family - you can always repeat the broken record "I"m just not interested / too busy right now." But I can tell you it doesn't get easier with time. I'm 43 and have never been in a relationship.

I really wish I had taken the risk when I was younger to start dating, and when I found someone compatible, told thedddm about my childhood SA and taken it really slow. I do believe that's possible.

Good luck, and post as much as you need to.

splitimage