Need help straight away?
You can talk privately to a counsellor online or call 0800 1111 for free.
Hi there,
Im so glad that you felt able to write to me about how youre feeling.
From what you told me, it took a lot of courage to tell the police about the sexual abuse you experienced. Im concerned to hear that youve not felt supported since people found out about it and youve been really brave to come and ask for help like this.
You explained that since your abuser went to prison youve just been left to try and cope with all of the difficult thoughts and feelings its left behind. Its important for you to be able to let out your emotions and ChildLine counsellors are always there for you whenever you want to talk. You might also find it helpful to look at the message board on sexual abuse. Its a place where young people can share their ideas and experiences and offer advice to each other.
You deserve help and support to cope with what youve been through and it might help to let other people in your life know about how youre really feeling. Its not your fault that you went through this and there isnt anything wrong with you for having these feelings after what happened. Perhaps you could think about which people in your life you trust the most and who youd like to let know about this. Talking to someone can really help if you are feeling low. You could also check out our page depression and feeling sad for more help.
If talking face-to-face feels too tough at first, remember that you can always write down what you want to say as a way of getting the conversation started. You might also feel like finding other ways to express your feelings. How you do that is your choice. Some people find it helpful to do something creative like write poetry, make artwork or play music. Others prefer doing exercise or reading. Its important to do what works best for you.
Thank you so much for telling me what youre going through. Remember that its alright to share these feelings with the people you trust. If the support people offer first time isnt helping, its a good idea to let them know or they might assume that everythings okay. ChildLine counsellors are also always here to talk to you on 0800 1111, by email or on a 1-2-1 chat. I hope you get the help you need.
Take care,
Sam
You can talk privately to a counsellor online or call 0800 1111 for free.
You can ask me about anything you want, there's nothing too big or small. I read every single letter but I can only answer a few each week. My replies are published here on my page.