If you’ve had an abortion and feel like you are struggling emotionally, you are not alone.
Studies have found that post-abortive women struggle emotionally and are more likely to deal with mental health issues.
If left untreated, these emotionally traumatic issues can lead to serious complications like substance abuse, anxiety, and depression, so recognizing the signs that you are struggling after an abortion is important.
What is Emotional Trauma?
According to mental health experts, emotional trauma is “damage or injury to the psyche after living through an extremely frightening or distressing event and may result in challenges in functioning or coping normally after the event.”
Indicators that you are struggling with emotional trauma include symptoms like:
- Anger
- Fear
- Sadness
- Shame
Remember that it is also not unusual to have trouble identifying these symptoms and how they are connected to your trauma. Speaking with someone you know and trust is a good way to begin processing your emotions.
There are also more serious symptoms that you may experience as a result of emotional trauma, including:
- Suicidal impulses
- Self-destructive behavior
- Abusing drugs or alcohol
If you are struggling with one of the above, contact a professional mental health expert immediately to get the help you need.
How Can I Heal?
Identifying the source of your emotional trauma and the need to heal is a powerful step forward in finding peace in your life.
In addition to speaking with a mental health expert, there are additional steps that you can take to facilitate healing, such as:
- Talking with others about how you feel.
- Trying meditation or deep breathing exercises and participating in physical activity.
- Taking care of yourself.
- Get plenty of sleep.
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Drink enough water.
- Avoiding alcohol, drugs, and tobacco.
- Getting back to your daily routine.
- Getting involved in your community.
Finding emotional healing from your abortion is an important priority, not just for your mental health but your health overall.
But remember to also give yourself grace—healing takes time, but the journey is worth the effort to find peace and make yourself whole again.
We are Here to Help
If you’ve had an abortion and are struggling emotionally, we are here to help. Our trained staff can talk with you and connect you with valuable resources and programs that have helped other women find emotional healing after an abortion.
If you are pregnant and considering abortion, we can provide you with valuable information about your pregnancy that will help you know and understand your options and empower you to make the best decision for your health.
All of our services are free and confidential. Contact us today and start getting the help you need.
