Reddit reviews Healing from Trauma: A Survivor's Guide to Understanding Your Symptoms and Reclaiming Your Life

Hey there. I've also been sexually abused / assaulted, and am about to enter grad school to help people like me with PTSD. If you want a shoulder or ear, I'm here.

What you're likely experiencing is PTSD (nightmares, flashbacks, etc.) from your traumatic event. This is very, very common. The nightmares and flashbacks could last a few weeks, months, or years- with varying severity. It really depends on so many factors. But what you need to know is that it's manageable and you can heal from it (something I feel not enough therapists stress to their patients with PTSD!)

Anyways, I recommend the book Healing from Trauma if you can not see a therapist right away. It's very helpful, and I've read it myself. I'm sorry your boyfriend was not supportive. Not being believed or not feeling validated or supported is the shittiest feeling. And often, over working just exacerbates our stress.

If you do find time, many people here linked to good places. You could also find a women's shelter in your area- sometimes they have counselors you can talk to over the phone, at your leisure, but you'd have to look for one in your area.

If you have any questions or ANYTHING for me, please don't hesitate. I've dealt with this for quite some time myself, and I can help you understand (for example, what the brain is doing right now) or quell any anxieties (is this normal, etc.)

Much love. I'm so sorry you had to endure this, but remember that our experiences do not make us damaged goods- they make us experienced, smarter, stronger, more interesting, and often, more compassionate people. Much love. <3

I've got to admit that I'm satisfied with hearing about their misery after victimizing someone they are supposed to care for and protect. You are absolutely right, you may not be able to choose your blood but you can always choose your family. It's going to take time and dedication to the process of healing. Sometimes you'll have to sacrifice other priorities because your health and recovery are worth it, because you are. :)

I know with being in school that you might be sick of reading but there is a very good book for trauma survivors called Healing from trauma. It came recommended from my group trauma therapist, something that all of us read within the group (at our own pace). It might help validate some of your feelings/emotions, and assist you in the recovery process. Priority #1 is to get into therapy, which you've already made a crucial first step towards.

http://www.amazon.com/Healing-Trauma-Survivors-Understanding-Reclaiming/dp/1600940617

I'd recommend the book Healing From Trauma, it gives a good overview of a lot of different kinds of symptoms and what they mean, and she talks a lot about the mind-body connection with regard to trauma. Also, working with a licensed massage therapist that I could speak frankly with about my injuries helped me a lot to deal with certain issues, or you could try physical therapy. There are even videos on youtube that offer tutorials for things like gentle yoga or stretching if that seems like a more reasonable place to start.

With PTSD, what I've learned is that if I keep working through the emotional side and the physical side will follow. Just remember to be patient with yourself... the body works on a different time scale, but with time and effort you can regain ground. Best of luck.