Women, Abuse & Trauma Therapy - Ending the Silence-

What is abuse-related trauma?


Abuse-related trauma can develop after a person has been physically/emotionally/sexually hurt and/or neglected, in childhood or as an adult.


A woman may have been:
• sexually or physically abused
• emotionally abused or neglected.
As a result, the woman may have overwhelming feelings of distress, fear and helplessness.

Recognizing Abuse-Related Trauma

Common effects of trauma caused by abuse include:

- Nightmares
- trouble sleeping
- panic attacks & anxiety
-depression
- feeling like you don't want to live or you can't go on with your life
- alcohol & /or other drug use
-flashbacks (sudden , vivid & unpleasant memories of the event)
-difficult relationships
- feelings of self hate & low self-esteem
- fearing people & relationships
- self-harm
-memory gaps


Where to find help

If you are concerned about abuse-related trauma, there are people who can help you or help you find support.

Contact:

• women’s health centres
• community health centres
• therapists in private practice (including massage therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists and social workers)
• sexual assault centres
• crisis lines for women who have been abused
• women’s shelters
• spiritual centres
• family service agencies
• family doctors.

End the shame & blame. Reach out for help. It is your time to find strength & heal.