Sexually abused
When I was only 6-7 years old I was sexually abused by the boy of a family friend. He did it multiple times, assuring me that this is something normal, but it is a game of ours and I am not allowed to tell anyone. It's been more that 10 years since then and I still didn't tell to almost anyone, except my boyfriend. I feel scared and guilty in the same time, even if I understand that this is not my fault. The abuse didn't affect me in the past as much as it does now, especially my relationship
You're very brave - give yourself credit for that. I was 10 when it happened to me, and was almost 30 before I told anyone, and I'm just now at almost 45 seeking professional help. I spent decades trying to ignore the problem and the impact it had on my life. Ask for help now, because this is an issue that won't go away and will continue to impact your life. Don't do like me and waste opportunity after opportunity because of the guilt or feeling you're not good enough.
Your so brave! Ive been through the exact thing but i havent told my boyfriend.Its such a horrible thing to go through and im here if you'd like to chat
Hi @ambitiousPomegranate8943
I am so sorry that this has happened to you. As Rebuilding stated, you are very brave and absolutely need to give yourself credit for that.
Sometimes childhood trauma isn't seen as that. I too was sexually abused as a child, by an extended family member, I think when I was 5-8 years old though I am not entirely sure. It took me over ten years to disclose to my sibling, over 20 to disclose to my parents and close friends.
Disclosing to my parents was the hardest thing I have ever done, but for me, it was freeing. I was no longer caught in situations where my abuser would be named or discussed at home. Of course there is a period of grieving for everyone, but now we work together to put my health first, understanding triggers better, hindsight understanding my change in behaviour when my abuser was a topic of discussion, etc.
The choice to disclose is entirely up to you.
I hope this helps.
Always sending my best,
-Jo
