On Nov. 4th I met the guy of my dreams. I was only fifteen when we met, but he made me so happy. We have been dating ever since. However, he has put his hands on me several times. I did not think this was a big deal until someone pointed out that I was in an abusive relationship. As a result, I decided to end the relationship on June 3rd. When we broke up he told me that if he couldn’t have me, then no one could. He then proceeded to rape me and stab me 7 times. I got away from him and ran to the neighbor’s house to call 911. I was in the hospital for two weeks on a breathing tube due to a collapsed lung. I am now currently in a program called IOP (intensive outpatient) trying to get help for my PTSD. Even though my ex-boyfriend is in jail I cannot help but feeling he is still a threat to me.
CONSIDER THIS:
- It sounds like you’ve been through a lot of trauma with all that’s happened during the past year. You’ve been through more than any teenager should have to endure.
- Continue to lean on your outpatient treatment as there will be others there that can relate to what you’re going through right now.
- Finding things to do that tend to take your mind off of the ordeal could be therapeutic for you, and help facilitate the healing process. Some people find their peace in writing/journaling, creating art, listening/writing music, exercising, etc.
- Reach out to those closest to you for support. Sometimes just having someone to listen is enough to lift you up for the day.
HELP YOURSELF:
- How can you use the advice/support you receive in your IOP to improve your life?
- What is the life lesson you can take away from this ordeal?
- What type of things can you do to help take your mind off of the situation?
