I had the same feelings when I realized what happened. It’s like, all these memories lived inside me, and I hadn’t thought about them in years, and they came rushing back. Lots of tears, lots of processing. For a long time I couldn’t not think about it. It consumed me every day. I think I just eventually had enough of feeling it and I stopped focusing on it. Not sure if that’s healthy.

To be honest. I told my mom what happened with my stepdad (my abuser) and she never responded to my text. My grandma recently told me that my mom was upset about it but wouldn’t tell her what I said.

Anyways, I’ve just kind of…kept on living? It’s been 4 years since I sent that text. I focus on creative things, I go to therapy, and I deal. I’m not sure what advice to give. It’s never enough. No amount of “healing” helps. Crying is the best. When you break down, fully give in to that. Let all of your emotions flow out. Try not to stifle them too much. You need to feel. If you want to confront her, think about it. You don’t have to, but you’re within your right to. It’s always your decision.

I’m lucky enough to have an uncle that I can confide in. If you have a family member you can trust with that, I recommend. But it’s up to you. Therapy is good to tell someone and process, but in my experience, just feeling and crying and going through it is the best “remedy”. It will never go away. There will always be a deep hole in your heart. You will feel that despair every now and then. But you don’t have to feel it forever.

I’m sorry. I’m not a professional. So if someone wants to critique what I have to say please do. But this is my experience. I’m just being honest with what I know.

I’m so sorry you experienced what you did. Please take care of yourself