If you are sexually abused it is difficult to handle it on your own. Most victims are better able to deal with it if they talk to someone. That the best way to get moral support and assistance. Sharing the feelings of guilt, anger or powerlessness may help you to come to grips with the abuse. It also decreases the risk it will ruin your sex life.
Most victims feel guilt and shame. But know that these feelings have no base. You have done nothing wrong: it wasn’t your fault!
Look for someone you can trust, for instance (one of) your parents, an aunt, a next-door neighbour or a teacher. If you live in the Netherlands you can also call ‘de Kindertelefoon' (0800-0432; 14.00-22.00 hour, without charge) or ‘Stichting Korrelatie’ (0900-1450; 9.00-22.00). In the United States you can call the National Sexual Assault Hotline 24 hours a day (1-800-656-HOPE).
If you ask for help, the person might also support you filing charges. Don’t be silenced by the perpetrator, even if it is someone you know well or even love.