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Recovery from assault is a complicated and controversial process. The confusion and fear that you are experiencing are normal and will be reduced in time. Reactions might be triggered by people, places, or things connected to the assault or just appear from "out of the blue." Victims often feel violated by the perpetrator, and the emotional pain from the incident can scar the individual more than the physical hurt. Some people believe that you can completely recover from assault but other believe that there will always be a part of you still injured.

Talking about the assault can help you feel better, but it may be really hard to do. It is common to want to avoid conversations and situations that may remind you of the assault. You may have a sense of wanting to "get on with life" and "let the past be the past." This is a normal part of the recovery process and may last for weeks or months.

To heal you will have to deal with fears and emotions. When you are ready, find someone who you can talk to whether this is a friend, family member, community member at your place of worship, teacher, counselor or a hot-line member. Remember each survivor has their own strategies for coping and will recover at his or her own pace. Try not to be critical and harsh on yourself and allow for time to heal your wounds.

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