Hi, I came across this website today after looking up symptoms of being abused as a child to somehow prove that it did not happen to myself once again. You see the thing is I broke up with my girlfriend 4 years ago, because I had this flashback of the sexual abuse, then told her, and then I couldn't stand to be with her anymore, it just killed me. I guess what I'm trying to say is that I've been in denial for four years now, and even now I'm still trying to deny what happened, but with the realization that the memories or flashbacks have not faded at all since then, I realize I need some support, so I decided to try this place. I've never really felt comfortable talking about my experience, and I still do not to this day, but I feel I've got to start to talk this out, or it will consume me. I mean I haven't really had a good relationship since I've started having these flashbacks, and really can't get close to anyone anymore. I just felt it was time to talk to others that could relate to me, and tell me I'm not crazy, what I'm going through is normal, because I honestly don't know what is normal since I've never really tlaked to anyone about it. One more question, how long did it take all of you to finally come to terms with everything, because even though my memories of the incident become more clear, it just makes me want to ignore them even more, if that makes any sense.

Welcome to NOMSV. I am glad that you found us even though the reason why you had to come here is a terrible one.

The healing process is individual for every person. I do not want to discourage you and say that it is impossible to tell how long it takes, but please know that through the work that I have done, I have seen many people work hard and succeed at healing.

Talking about what happened to you is a very difficult first step and I am glad that you found the strength in yourself to do so. I hope that you find as much support here as I have.

Keep talking. We are listening.

Peace,

Jim

SS35,

You have come to the right place. This is a safe place to work through some of your issues. There are many wonderful supportive people here. You may also want to seriously consider making an appointment with a counselor.There will be days that you wished you never opened this can of worms, but it will be well worth it in the long run.

Do you think it's a coincidence that your first post is on Independece Day??? I don't!

Brian

SS35......WELCOME, BRIAN AND JIM ARE RIGHT!

TAKE YOUR TIME, DON'T PANIC, TALK TO US WHEN AND IF YOU WANT. THERE ARE MANY OF US WHO SHARE YOUR PAIN AND WE WLL LISTEN WITH THE HOPE THAT YOU DO GET SUPPORT AND PROFESSTIONAL HELP. UNDERSTANDING YOUR FELLINGS IS MOST IMPORTANT. JUST COMING HERE LOOKING FOR HELP IS YOUR FIRST STEP.

WE ARE ALL ON "YOUR" SIDE, PEACE TO YOU AT NIGHT AND ALWAYS, SCOT