Triggers flashbacks

[Sarahcat]

I was in an abusive relationship from the age of (detail removed by Moderator) and left at (detail removed by Moderator) along with child at the time. I knew I had to get out. After this he continued to be abusive and used visitations to be abusive towards me. Our child is now alot older and has experienced abuse. He now isn’t seeing his father. I keep getting triggered by words even and its taken me back to when I was younger and met him. I feel sick on how he groomed me he was older and got me to do things I was not ready for. This all came out recently due to some harrassment we had as son not seeing him anymore. Im trying to move forward from this but feel I must speak my truth then I will feel better moving forward. Only now I feel safe to express more what happened to me.

[Lisa]

Hi Sarahcat,

Welcome to the forum and thank you for your post, I hope you find the forum a helpful place to be.

The flashbacks and trauma triggers that you explain are a normal response to the serious abuse you have lived through. In your post you say you now feel able to speak your truth so it might be the right time to consider accessing some specialist counselling. If you have not done so already you could contact your local domestic abuse service to ask them what they can suggest in your area.

You may also find it useful to take part in the Freedom Programme, which is a 12 week rolling programme which provides information about male violence against women. This programme identifies the tactics abusers use, the beliefs held by abusers, and the effects that domestic abuse can have on women and children. The Freedom Programme is for women who have experience of domestic abuse, be it in their personal or professional lives. You can start the programme at any time, and you can attend as many or as few sessions as you choose. Each session is entirely confidential, and you can contribute as much, or as little, of your own thoughts and experiences as you like. Many women find this a very useful support group as it is available to women whether they are experiencing current or past abuse. This is available to do as an online course that you can do yourself as well if preferred.

You could also perhaps try calling Supportline who offer confidential emotional support by telephone, email and post. They work with callers to develop healthy, positive coping strategies, an inner feeling of strength and increased self-esteem to encourage healing, recovery and moving forward with life. They also keep details of counsellors, agencies and support groups throughout the UK. They cover a wide range of issues, including domestic abuse. They can also refer locally. You can contact them on 01708 765200 or visit their website.

Keep posting, there’s support for you here,

Lisa

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