So Happy I Found This Place!

[IchBin]

Hi there everyone, I'm a 24 year old male with cPTSD stemming from sexual abuse in my childhood: repeated instances at the hands of my older sister from ages 6-10 and also by my best friend in grade school. Besides this, I endured constant psychological/verbal abuse from my siblings throughout my childhood.

I have only begun my process of trying to figure out what's going on with my mind. I've had a lot of trouble finding a psychologist who even knows what my cluster of symptoms is, let alone how to treat it. As such I've been trying to do as much research as possible on my own, and I feel this forum will be a priceless resource for me.

I've had a lot of trouble feeling like I'm so different from my peers, and the "get drunk and party" atmosphere is difficult and complicated for me because of its inherent sexual and interpersonal nature. I am only beginning to understand what it means to have problems with attachment...

I attended a group conference for sexually abused men last year and it was one of the most intense experiences I've ever had. It helped me realize that reaching out is such an important part of the healing process, and also a great way to build trust with other people.

I've got so much darkness inside of me psychologically, sometimes I don't know how I can keep going. I've read some of your stories on here and they give me strength and remind me of the tenacity of human spirit.

I look forward to getting to know some of you and sharing my journey with you. Cheers guys/gals, we're in this together.

 

[cherryblossom]

Hi IchBin

Welcome to the forum

I'm sure all the information here will help you enormously. I'm sorry you have reason to be here, but glad that you found 'us'!

I just wanted you to know that we have a 'sister site' - Survive Sexual Abuse (SSA), which may also benefit you. The link is at the bottom of my post, if you'd like to join us there. We're still quite a small community, because we only started the forum last year. Also currently, majority female, but guys are very welcome too

. As you have said - we're in this together

... Anyway, just thought I'd let you know.
Regards
Cherryblossom

 

[Tweedlebug]

Hi IchBin

Welcome from another newbie

Tweedlebug

 

[KP the nut]

Hi IchBin, welcome to the forum and congratulations on your post. It is a big step, but you did great, hopefully it will get easier.

I feel at home here and hope that you will as well. I am lucky as I have a supportive family, but sometimes they just don't get how I'm feeling the way I do. This forum has my understanding, non judgemental online family. I have made friends and we share techniques, ups, downs and the bits in between.

I'm looking forward to knowing you better
KP

 

[Lady of Longbourn]

Hello IchBin and welcome.

You are totally right, reaching out does help a lot. Helps having people who have been and seen things like you have. Who knows what is it like having PTSD.

By the way, I like your user name. :) It speaks volumes.

A

 

[AngelaMarie]

Welcome! I have been here less than two weeks, and it's the place I come when I want to feel a part of something and know if I feel something there is a big chance I will fiind support.