Since we are thinking beings, it can often help to understand that the difficulties we experience as a result of abuse and trauma are normal reactions – i.e. anyone who had a similar experience would have a similar reaction. For example, emotions that you would expect someone to feel during, and as a result of, abuse (especially sexual abuse) are: terror, rage, guilt, shame, grief, invasion, helplessness, pain, and confusion. These are powerful emotions and if left untreated can literally cripple a person’s ability to function normally in the world. Over the next few postings, I will discuss some of these emotions in more detail.
