Question
How do I overcome the thought of a terrible childhood encounter that is hindering me from having sex?
Sexual harassment is real. The CDC estimates that over 1 in 3 women has been sexually harassed at some point.
Admitting that you have been raped or sexually assaulted at some point can be a difficult thing to do. There is the stigma na attached to it, and there is the toll it takes on both your mind and your body. You might feel dirty, and you definitely will be anxious about how other people will react when they find out.
It could even hamper your ability to have a loving and stable relationship. Anyways, you have to get the poison out of your system. Here are some ways to go about it:
Speak to someone you can trust
A lot of women believe that they can bury the shame of their rape if they never talk about it. However, avoiding the truth is no way to heal. Hiding only adds to the feeling that you get in this time. So, reach out to someone.
However, make sure to be careful about who you tell. Get someone you know who will be empathetic, supportive, and relaxed. If you don’t have that person, then you should see a therapist.
Confront your negative feelings
One of the biggest strengths that trauma has is its ability to leave you feeling alone and helpless. However, it would be best if you reminded yourself that you are healthy and can cope with any strong feeling. You can help reclaim this sense of power by helping others; join a charity, donate, volunteer for a good cause, etc.
Consider a support group.
Nothing takes the sting of a bad experience that sharing it with people who can relate with you. Support groups will take out that sense of isolation from you and help you to cope with any negative symptoms that you have. Slowly, you get to take the path towards your recovery.