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Home: Survivors: For Sex Workers: The Power Book

Moving on

Some people handle all their feelings about being assaulted in a very short time. If this happens to you, don't feel guilt and don't feel that you have no 'heart'. Just give yourself permission to move on. Once you feel you have moved on, still keep a look out for effects of fear or trauma that can surface at some other, future, significant or odd time. Don't underestimate the impact of sexual assault on your mind, body, sense of self or sexuality! If you've had a past experience of assault or abuse, some small or not-so-small incident can re-open 'old wounds', making you vulnerable to really intense feelings or even thinking you're 'going mad'. Get counselling if you need it, when you need it - even if its 20 years later!

Taking action can be healing

Sexual assault is about someone taking your personal power away from you. You are entitled to restore that control for yourself, to get that power back! You are entitled to heal. Even though you may just 'want it to go away', taking action after an assault can help move you from feeling like a victim to being a survivor.

I did nothing 'cos I was too scared that I'd be the one who ends up with the charge.

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Disclaimer Copyright Updated: 24 Sep 2009