You Can Overcome Sex Abuse
Someone you know and even love can abuse you. Sex abuse can harm your body. But you also suffer serious mental harm. This can harm your health and well-being.
Not your fault
Sex abuse is not your fault. If someone abused you, you may feel guilt or shame. You may even think the abuse was your fault. The first step to feeling better is to know that the abuse is not your fault. It is a crime. No one ever deserves it.
You can heal with help. Ask for help. This takes courage. Sometimes people tell loved ones or friends about abuse, and those people do not believe them. If this happens, do not give up.
There are experts who help people recover. Tell your doctor or nurse or your counselor/social worker. You can also report sex abuse to the police.
Need Help?
Abuse is against the law. If you or someone you know is being abused, here's how to get help:
- Call 911 if you are in danger.
- Talk to someone you trust, like your minister or doctor. Ask that person to help you find a counselor.
- Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline® at 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233) or TTY 1-800-787-3224. The hotline can tell you places to go where no one can find you, and it can help you make a plan to stay safe.
- Click onto any of these sites for more information:
- www.endabuse.org
- www.ndvh.org
- Keystone Mercy
Publication Source:
Medicaid/Spring 2004
Author:
Deden, Sandra
Online Source:
American Psychiatric Associationhttp://healthyminds.org/factsheets/LTF-DomesticViolence.pdf
© 2000-2012 Krames StayWell, 780 Township Line Road, Yardley, PA 19067. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.