TERRIFIED

i've been searching for a place where i could talk to other survivors of sexual abuse. i'm currently seeing a therapist but know that, that isn't enough. I've only been confronting my abuse for about two months. I'm terrified, i've seen the effects of dealing with this on my mother who was sexually abused by her father and four of her brothers she has suffered severe meanthal health issues and self harm. My brother and his wife, who I'm close with, has two young girls we found out about year ago that they had been sexually abused by their cousin for several years. No one in my family knows that I was abused, I want to tell them but can't. It would devestate them, and I think it would lead my mother to suicide, it would mean that there had been three direct generations that had been victims of incest. Why has this happen to me and my family?

I am so sorry that this has happened to you. I wish you all the best and feel that it may be benefical to you and your family if you tell them. Personally i would, i dont know your mother or how she would take it. Only you can decide that. However maybe you should give her more credit with her strength but like i said i dont know her. Only you can make that call. You are in my prayers and thoughts. I wish only the best for you and your family. Perhaps you could suggest family counciling and tell them there with a professional at hand? Then he/she could talk your mother and the rest of your family through any emotions they are feeling at that time. Good luck and keep us posted. PM me anytime.

Hi and welcome. I'm glad you are facing your abuse with help and I know it is terrifying, especially with generations of your family affected. If there are people in your life, whether family or friends, who you feel cannot support you -- even if you want their support -- please remember that there are many other people who can listen and support you. You do not have to be alone with this. I really encourage you to keep reaching out and trust you instincts about who you are ready to disclose to or turn to for help. But most important, do find people you can lean on -- recovery alone is really painful, and it does not have to be that way. You deserve better for yourself. And people will certainly be here on this site for you.

Be well,

mtd

Hello and welcome to Psych Central. There is chat room if you ever need support that you may use for support. Take care Soidhonia