I've recently been sexually assaulted. this isn't the first time it's the 5th time. the other four times were due to abusive relationships and I managed to block out any memories of those incidents. I thought it wouldn't happen to me again. until that night. it's been about 3 months since the most recent and everything has just kind of bombarded me at once. How do I carry on living knowing that my attacker is out there and carrying on like that night didn't even exist?
For me loosing my identity has been a huge issue as part of my depression. Then I began to feel rage -not always acted wisely upon, however, whilst u may not be able to be proactive at this point re the attacks, write down every detail u can remember. Keep adding to your recording as you remember new details. The reason I'm advising this is that following a traumatic incident recently, I reacted with rage and followed/gathered evidence and took it to the police. I did not do it for me but because of the very real risk he posed to the community. I felt empowered and had fleeting experiences of courage and self belief. Due to the impending court case my mood has been significantly impacted upon also. But do I regret it? No way! I have been reminded of the person that still exists inside - someone that used to care and had a strong sence of right and wrong. Even if you are not able to take the matter further, writing down your thoughts about what has happened to you will help I promice. Sending you hugs and the hope that you will be able to believe in yourself and your worth one day x