Getting over sexual assault?

Question

I was sexually assaulted when I was younger (by a stranger) and although I have a healthy sex life now, I still struggle with certain things like not being comfortable in my body bc I can't stop thinking about my attackers hands all over it or being triggered by something on tv and not being able to function for WEEKS afterwards. I know ill never be completely over it but what are other ways I can cope? (Can't afford a therapist and I talk to people I trust about it ofc they can't relate) Much love gals 💖💖
UPDATE: thank you ladies so much, I'm heartbroken that so many of you have experienced this as well, yet so touched that you are all willing to help and talk, what doesn't kill us makes us stronger, I will deff be looking into a support group of some kind  THANK YOU ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Answer

I was sexually assaulted and physically abused many many years ago. I still suffer from PTSD till this day! I have allot of triggers and nightmares. When my husband and I fight and he raises his voice I get emotional and cry cause it causes a trigger and scares me! People who have not lived threw this pain don't understand. I can't show emotion too people and I can't communicate well. I'm scared of people. I see a phyc doctor and am on medications. If you can't afford counseling you can call Doves or hope center ... What ever women's shelter for victims you have near by and usually a victims advocate will set up free counseling for you. You should look for a good support group weather it's family, friends, counseling, victims advocate or a victims support group... It usually helps to have a plan set up! I'M DEFF HERE IF YOU EVER NEED TO OPEN UP AND TALK!  I DEFF UNDERSTAND WHAT YOUR LIVING AND FEELING! Good luck sweety!

Answer

I agree try to find a support group, talking to people who have been through similar situations could be really cathartic.

Answer

Honestly one the only things that helped me get over it was finding people who had also been through it and just pouring my heart out to them whenever I felt triggered. I was raped 5 years ago, and to this day I still get upset if my mom marathon watches law and order SVU. It does get better though!

Answer

I'm a survivor as well and honestly it just takes time.. My husband understands there are things that trigger me and he tries super hard not to take it personally but he's very good about making sure I feel safe. I went to therapists over the years and nothing really helped me but it's been 8 years since I was assaulted but I was engaged to my attacker.. Most people tell me I was asking for it or what not but you don't ask for someone to do that to you no matter how close you are to them..

Answer

I totally get what you're going through. I was sexually assaulted at gun point. What helped me was actually talking about it. I have a very supportive husband, then fiance, and supportive family. It's been almost 3 years and I still get flashbacks. For the longest time I couldn't go outside especially at night and never anywhere by myself. When I did eventually go out my fiance would ride the bus with me to and from work. You never truly get over it. Try and find ppl who've gone through it. Let ppl know your fears. Just talk about it. Cry, breakdown, get mad, scream, do it all. I was fortunate enough to be able to go through therapy but all you need is someone to talk to. Sorry this is so long but hope it helps.

Getting over sexual assault?

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