Childhood Sexual Abuse / Question
Published: March 27, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
i am a 16 years old and still what i consider a virgin, i was raped when i was 7 years old by a close friend and i haven't quite got over it, when my boyfriend wanted us to have sex i completly freaked out and dumped him! will i ever have a normall relationship, and be able to trust another male again? please help as i have nobody to turn to as my friends and perants dont understand!
Signed: Raped At 7 And Not Quite Over It
Dear Raped At 7 And Not Quite Over It,
Being raped is a terrifying and traumatic experience. Like any major trauma it takes time, support and usually therapy to work through the numerous issues that arise from being victimized.
There are people out there that can help you to lighten the emotional load and deal with some of the pain that you are carrying. We do not know if you have talked to anyone about your experience yet, but going through a rape without seeking help is not good for your emotional health and well being. From what you have written, it sounds like you have not yet fully dealt with this experience. We suggest that you talk to someone about what happened as soon as possible. In time, a counselor or a psychiatrist who is trained in working with victims of sexual assault will help you deal with all your issues surrounding the rape. This is a very difficult issue to work through and you should not have to do it alone.
For help finding a therapist in northern NJ you can call the Access Center from Atlantic Behavioral Health at 888.247.1400. Outside of this area, you can log onto the US Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's website to locate services in your area. In addition, the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAIN) has a good hotline number to call for more information about sexual assault. They can be reached at (800) 656.HOPE (4673).
FX feels confident that you will be able to have a normal relationship again. Rape is very traumatic, but it is something people recover from. We suggest you discuss your most recent relationship and your fears about being intimate with a counselor. It is understandable that the thought of having sex with your boyfriend was scary after what you have been through, but if you spend some time working through these issues you will be able to have a healthy intimate relationship.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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