0
Users
0
Views
0
Reactions
0
Stories read
Need to take a break?
For immediate help, visit {{resource}}
After being assaulted, I've become somewhat obsessed with sexual assault as a topic. Is this unhealthy?
Answer by Dr. Laura
PhD Mental Health Nurse & Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner
Thank you for asking this difficult question. To start, I want to say that what you are experiencing is a completely normal and understandable response to the trauma of sexual assault. It's not uncommon for survivors to become preoccupied with the topic of sexual violence in the aftermath of an assault, and this doesn't mean there's anything wrong with you or that you're doing something unhealthy.
In many ways, your focus on sexual assault as a topic may be a way for your brain to try to make sense of what happened to you and to regain a sense of control over your experience. By learning more about sexual violence, you may be seeking answers, validation, or a way to connect with others who have gone through similar experiences.
However, it's important to be mindful of how this preoccupation is impacting your daily life and your mental health. If you find that your thoughts about sexual assault are interfering with your ability to engage in activities you enjoy, maintain relationships, or function at work or school, it may be a sign that you could benefit from additional support.
Healing from sexual trauma is a complex and ongoing process, and it's okay to need help along the way. Talking to a therapist who specializes in working with survivors of sexual assault can provide you with a safe space to process your emotions, learn coping strategies, and work through any shame, guilt, or anger you may be feeling.
It can also be helpful to engage in activities that promote self-care and relaxation, such as exercise, mindfulness practices, or spending time with loved ones. Finding ways to reconnect with your body and your sense of self can be an important part of the healing process.
Remember, there is no one "right" way to heal from sexual trauma, and what works for one person may not work for another. Trust your instincts, be patient with yourself, and don't hesitate to reach out for support when you need it. You are not alone, and there are people who want to help you on your healing journey. Thank you for reaching out to us.
Discard message?
You have a comment in progress, are you sure you want to discard it?
0
Users
0
Views
0
Reactions
0
Stories read
Need to take a break?
For immediate help, visit {{resource}}
Please adhere to our Community Guidelines to help us keep Our Wave a safe space. All messages will be reviewed and identifying information removed before they are posted.
Grounding activity
Find a comfortable place to sit. Gently close your eyes and take a couple of deep breaths - in through your nose (count to 3), out through your mouth (count of 3). Now open your eyes and look around you. Name the following out loud:
5 – things you can see (you can look within the room and out of the window)
4 – things you can feel (what is in front of you that you can touch?)
3 – things you can hear
2 – things you can smell
1 – thing you like about yourself.
Take a deep breath to end.
From where you are sitting, look around for things that have a texture or are nice or interesting to look at.
Hold an object in your hand and bring your full focus to it. Look at where shadows fall on parts of it or maybe where there are shapes that form within the object. Feel how heavy or light it is in your hand and what the surface texture feels like under your fingers (This can also be done with a pet if you have one).
Take a deep breath to end.
Ask yourself the following questions and answer them out loud:
1. Where am I?
2. What day of the week is today?
3. What is today’s date?
4. What is the current month?
5. What is the current year?
6. How old am I?
7. What season is it?
Take a deep breath to end.
Put your right hand palm down on your left shoulder. Put your left hand palm down on your right shoulder. Choose a sentence that will strengthen you. For example: “I am powerful.” Say the sentence out loud first and pat your right hand on your left shoulder, then your left hand on your right shoulder.
Alternate the patting. Do ten pats altogether, five on each side, each time repeating your sentences aloud.
Take a deep breath to end.
Cross your arms in front of you and draw them towards your chest. With your right hand, hold your left upper arm. With your left hand, hold your right upper arm. Squeeze gently, and pull your arms inwards. Hold the squeeze for a little while, finding the right amount of squeeze for you in this moment. Hold the tension and release. Then squeeze for a little while again and release. Stay like that for a moment.
Take a deep breath to end.