Post Trauma Growth

When I first told my wife Christine that I was sexually abused as a child, I had flashbacks on when I disclosed to my mum all those years ago, Christine did not question me or say, ‘that was a long time ago’, or ‘why are you still thinking about that’, she cried and hugged me and told me she loved me no matter what.

There’s no data to show how that impacted me, my body, my mind and how I function today.

Being sexually abused as a child can have damaging effects mentally, socially, physically and alter the pathway of a life trajectory. What are the chances that a child that has been sexually abused can recover? How do you measure this? Well, I strongly believe there are multiple ways we can measure post trauma growth.

I want to speak about connection and a sense of belonging.

Finding a partner that loves you unconditionally is one component but finding someone that takes the T-I-M-E and truly wants to contribute to your healing is a part of the healing in itself. There is no measurement on how great this feeling is.

I strongly believe if it wasn’t for my amazing wife Christine I would not be the man I am today and more importantly the daddy that I am.

It has only improved our relationship as she better understands why, at times I get anxious and was a huge support when I had a huge trigger a few years ago. It also promoted communication and understanding not just for me, but also for her.

She has had a profound impact on my post trauma growth and is one of the reasons why I can talk about my experiences.

Living with someone that has been impacted with any trauma or abuse can have its challenges, however supporting them, being patient, understanding and being compassionate can have a huge positive impact. It’s the small acts that make the big ones. Have the conversation.

Thank you, Christine, I love you.