[Trigger] My niece (sexual abuse)

[Atomics]

I just found out that my neice who is 14 but has the mental age of 7 had been abused by her friends granddad
today she told her friend at school who got her to tell one of her teachers
she called the soical workers and the poilce

we are all in shock and so very upset at the moment

what she did was very brave of her she was scared to tell us becuase she didnt want her step dad to go to jail for hitting the person

he is being calmed down by my sister my neice lives with my mother and my step dad
they are looking after her making sure that she feels safe at home and when she is at school

we are going to have her up here at the weekend and let her talk about it if she needs to

but am worryed about her that she may start to self injure as she dose things like pick her skin and bite inside of her mouth

it reminds me of my abuse at her age i do feel triggered by this am trying to be strong but am finding it hard to cope right now

i know am being selfish thinking of my self

 

[Lana]

Re: My niece SA

You're not selfish at all, Atomics. As a matter of fact, I think what you're demonstrating is a lot of compassion for the child, and that's a good thing.

However, if you're feeling triggered, it may be a good idea to call your therapist and have a talk with him or her, just to make sure you're alright and are coping well.

Your niece is very lucky to have you and your family to care for her and protect her.

 

[Cat Dancer]

Re: My niece SA

I agree with Lana. You're not being selfish at all. It's not selfish to think of yourself. You deserve to take care of yourself and do what it takes to keep yourself safe.

You're also being compassionate and caring. You can't help being triggered. I think talking to your therapist is a great idea.

 

[sister-ray]

Re: My niece SA

I agree with CD and Lana, your post shows kindness, understanding and caring towards your niece, lots of people get triggered by things loved ones go through if they have been through them themselves, thats just normal, its ok to think of yourself too, its certainly not selfish.