The trauma of sexual abuse is something I cannot describe in just a few words. It is an experience that forever changes you, leaving deep scars that are not always visible to the world. The pain, the shame, the isolation—it’s all-consuming. The feelings of powerlessness and betrayal that accompany the abuse are almost unbearable. When I first tried to seek help, I thought I would be supported by the police, but what followed was nothing short of traumatic and unacceptable.
Instead of the support and understanding I desperately needed, I was met with a system that felt cold and indifferent. The lack of support groups left me feeling even more isolated, and the police—who should have been my advocates—seemed to dismiss my case as just another number. The emotional toll was overwhelming. It felt like my pain wasn’t taken seriously. I was just another victim in a system that wasn’t designed to listen.
I vividly remember receiving texts from the police late in the evening, but when there was no update, I was left in limbo. They wouldn’t call, wouldn’t reassure me, and I was left to face the trauma alone, with no clear answers or support. It wasn’t just the lack of communication; it was the profound lack of empathy, the sense that I was just a statistic in their case log, rather than a human being going through something unimaginable. This lack of care made me question everything—why did it feel like my suffering wasn’t worth more than a text message at 9pm?
But then, I found Freeva. Working with Caz, Emily, and Nicky was a turning point in my journey. For the first time, I felt seen. They didn’t just offer generic advice—they took the time to truly listen, to understand, and to support me in ways that I never thought possible. They built a rapport with me, earning my trust through their consistency, stability, and genuine care. They showed me that there was hope, that not all systems are broken, and that there are people who truly want to help.
What I’ve learned through this painful journey is that healing from trauma is not just about the mental aspect, but about a holistic approach. It’s about being supported in every way—emotionally, physically, and mentally. It’s about feeling safe, feeling heard, and knowing you don’t have to face the pain alone. We don’t always need to be psychoanalysed or pushed to ‘move on’ before we’re ready. Trauma takes time to heal, and that’s okay. Having the right support can help guide us through that journey, and for me, that support came from Freeva.
It was through movement—finding creative outlets, engaging in activities, and connecting with others—that I began to heal. My thoughts, once isolated in the darkness of my trauma, slowly began to feel lighter. I started to feel like myself again. For the first time, I felt like I was moving forward, rather than being stuck in a place of endless pain.
This journey is not easy. The trauma of sexual abuse doesn’t just disappear. But with the right support, the right people by your side, healing is possible. I’m not where I want to be yet, but I am no longer trapped in the darkness of my trauma. If you’re struggling, please know this: You are not alone. There is help, and you deserve it. Keep going, because there is hope and a future beyond the trauma.
Does this sound familiar?
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or has experienced, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, rape and/or trauma, you are not alone.
At Freeva, we understand the unique challenges that survivors often face, particularly around domestic/sexual abuse, accessing appropriate support and facing stigmas.
To receive or refer support, please call us on 0808 802 0028
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