Do you have scars and bruises that are visible but you try to hide and cover them with makeup or baggy clothing? Are you afraid to go around a specific family member or family friend because of the uncomfortable hugs or inappropriate comments that are said to you? Do you have feelings of self doubt or have been made to feel unworthy? All of these questions or scenarios are things that many people deal with on a day to day basis or maybe even minute to minute. Abuse is a term that just from hearing it can turn a person’s world upside down. There are many people who suffer in silence out of fear. Fear that they have brought on the abuse somehow themselves, fear that no one will believe them, fear that the abuse will never end no matter what. Abuse can look different from person to person and occurs in different manners. Abuse can be sexual, physical, verbal, mental, and emotional.
1. Acceptance One of the toughest things to do is accept that you have been a victim of abuse. It can be very different to speak the words not only to others but especially to yourself. Acceptance is not an easy process and it will take time, but acceptance can be the first step to regaining your life back.
2. Seek Understanding after acceptance comes understanding. It is hard to come to terms with what has happened. That's where you will find yourself blaming what has happened on you. Please understand that you did not ask for this nor did you seek for it to happen therefore it is not your fault.
3. Trust Your Gut If you notice that you feel uncomfortable in the presence of a particular person or individuals, remove yourself immediately and let someone know. Also, do not be afraid to report any suspicious Behavior whether it's verbal, physical, on the Internet or in person. Reports for any type of abuse can be done through hospitals specific organizations for abused and of course the police. There are also hotlines that can be called for reporting purposes.
4. Seek Help Many people try to move forward but suffer in silence. You do not have to do this alone. There are trained professionals that are here to help especially in the areas of abuse. Taking the first step to seek help is the beginning of your your recovery.
There are also groups and organizations to assist you in recognizing and understanding what has happened. Below are hotline numbers that can be used.
National Domestic Violence Hotline 18007997233
National Sexual Assault Hotline 18006564673
There are also several organizations and agencies available to help. Remember that you are not alone!
By: Constance West, MA, CIT
1. Acceptance One of the toughest things to do is accept that you have been a victim of abuse. It can be very different to speak the words not only to others but especially to yourself. Acceptance is not an easy process and it will take time, but acceptance can be the first step to regaining your life back.
2. Seek Understanding after acceptance comes understanding. It is hard to come to terms with what has happened. That's where you will find yourself blaming what has happened on you. Please understand that you did not ask for this nor did you seek for it to happen therefore it is not your fault.
3. Trust Your Gut If you notice that you feel uncomfortable in the presence of a particular person or individuals, remove yourself immediately and let someone know. Also, do not be afraid to report any suspicious Behavior whether it's verbal, physical, on the Internet or in person. Reports for any type of abuse can be done through hospitals specific organizations for abused and of course the police. There are also hotlines that can be called for reporting purposes.
4. Seek Help Many people try to move forward but suffer in silence. You do not have to do this alone. There are trained professionals that are here to help especially in the areas of abuse. Taking the first step to seek help is the beginning of your your recovery.
There are also groups and organizations to assist you in recognizing and understanding what has happened. Below are hotline numbers that can be used.
National Domestic Violence Hotline 18007997233
National Sexual Assault Hotline 18006564673
There are also several organizations and agencies available to help. Remember that you are not alone!
By: Constance West, MA, CIT
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