[kitkat]

I was assaulted a very long time ago. It was very traumatic, but it was a really long time ago. I did not speak about this to anyone until the last several years. I am now after all this time having major problems with it. It is present in my life and at times it feels overwhelming. Why didn't this affect me back then and why is it affecting me now so badly. The overwhelm on my feelings is so irrationaly and out of control and sometimes it feels like it I just can't stand it anymore. Has anyone else had an experience like this. I was just wondering what I should do. I don't usually write on these boards, but am getting to the point where I feel I need some advice.

[jennie]

Your mind copes the best way it knows how and allows you to face (remember) things whenever you are ready, through symptoms of PTSD. It would be good to learn all you can about PTSD, maybe consider seeing a counselor trained in trauma and/or attend group therapy with others who have experienced trauma. What you are experiencing are normal symptoms the body must process through to get to healing. You don't need to suffer alone...so don't be afraid to ask for help. (((Huggs)))

[kitkat]

How would someone find a group, newspaper? Thanks for the response.
Kit

[Lauren]

Hello Kitkat I understand what your saying our minds and bodies have different ways of dealing with trauma , some place these traumatic events on the back burner until a time that they are more able to deal with it . With myself I totally split off into different parts. In most cases the body or the mind will store this information in order that you can heal and move through the emotions ,that have been left alone for so long , It is important that you allow yourself to find some support. Allthough it is overwhelming trauma will alaways make itself known in different ways, dont avoid it face it , it controls us when , we dont face it. Take your time and be safe . Lauren

[jst]

Hi KitKat, It's hard I know because I'm going through the same I was assaulted about 8 years ago and only now have I become really messed up about it. I have really bad nightmares as if the incident has only just happened, I am seeing a counsellor but it just seems to make me more worked up. If you do get some good advice let me know, but at the moment its hard and we both need to try and cope the best we can. Good Luck.

[jennie]

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) are two groups that usually keep listings of all other types of groups within your area. You can find those two easily in the phone book. Also, you can call just about any medical facility or therapist's office and just ask if they can refer a group for you. It's difficult to find up-to-date listings online. Hope this helps (((Huggs)))

[kitkat]

Thank you all for the advice and support. I didn't realize anyone had responded. I am trying to find a counselor who understands what I am feeling.
Thanks and
Take Care,
Kit

[Jennigirl]

Hi KitKat,
I was raped by my dad for over 15 years before the 'day child' stood up and took the blows to draw the line in the sand. I just read a book called "Miss America By Day, by Marilyn Van Debur from Colorado. It is a tough book to read but it really explains a lot of thing for those of us who suffered long term abuse and had a mom who really had nothing to do with us but pretend that all was well inthe family. I explains pain and aches and so many things. I would recommend it to anyone who had long term abuses of any kind, expecially sexual abuse. I feel like a new person after readying it. I understand so many more things than before. I also see a counselor and am on meds due to the long term abuses..........Know that we care and are here for support.........Hugs {{{{{{{{{{{{{KitKat}}}}}}}}}}}} Jennigirl :-)