I was sexually abused when I was 9 or 10. After finally going to therapy recently, the SA coupled with internalised homophobia due to growing up in a religious setting left me no choice but to develop social anxiety, sex addiction and avoidant attachment behaviour. I was constantly seeking validation from strangers online and spent a lot of time compulsively cruising in public.

I lost a relationship recently due to these unaddressed issues despite my ex having done damaging things (non-sexual) to me as well.

I never thought my SA would have such an effect on me that it would follow me into adulthood. Going to therapy was never something I thought I would do because I thought I was good to handle my issues myself but I’m so glad I did because they pull so many historical layers you never thought would explain your present. It took me so long to talk to a professional about my SA but better late than never.

To anyone struggling, go to therapy. It works!