At Barnardo's Beacon, we understand that as a parent or carer it can be hard to stop and reflect on how you're feeling and spend some time thinking about your own wellbeing. Below is a list of some of things you maybe feeling and experiencing, and we want you to know that you are not alone.
Things that you may be feeling
- Guilt and self-blame
- Rage and anger
- Shock and confusion
- Stress and anxiety
- Disgust and shame
- Sadness and pain
- Grief and loss
- Denial and withdrawn
You may also
- Have trouble sleeping
- Have a change in your eating habits and appetite
- Feel physically unwell for example having regular headaches
- Have regular negative thoughts
- Feel out of control and have sudden changes in mood
- Not want to face family and friends
- Struggle with your relationship with your child/children
- Feel unable to set boundaries with you child/children
All of these feelings are natural and valid responses; you are also going through trauma. Supporting a young person who has experienced something like sexual abuse can be frightening, challenging and leave you feeling drained.
One of the most important things you can do to support your child through their recovery is to also look after yourself.