If you have been sexually abused or sexually assaulted and you are a teenager or an adult, keep reading. This manual is for you when you decide that you want to do something about the pain, depression, anxiety, frustration, panic or terror that you experience in the aftermath of your victimization experiences - whether they just happened or whether they happened a long, long time ago. Perhaps you do not see a connection between your disturbing emotions and the sexual victimization in your experience. It might be worth your while to read this manual anyway. Make up your own mind about what it offers.
This manual is deliberately organized into small sections, making it easy to find the information you need when you want it. There is a logical progression to this manual, and it is a good idea to cruise through it once so that you get the drift of it as a whole. Once you know where everything is, then you will be able to find things fairly easily, as you please. After all, pleasing you is the main purpose here.
This manual may be a substitute for professional assistance some of the time. On the other hand, it is a good idea to find the kind of assistance you need during the tougher times. For instance, if you are in danger, find help and find it fast. Am I coming through loud and clear? If you are involved in a court action against an offender, it is best to have assistance. Victim services workers, sexual assault counsellors, police officers and supportive friends are a necessity. That's a tough path to walk, so get some company.
It's also a good idea to have assistance from a qualified professional if you are being overwhelmed by disturbing thoughts or feelings. There are ways through them - that's what this manual is all about. Keep in mind that getting some good coaching is one of the most helpful things that you can do to overcome emotional obstacles.
This manual is just one resource for you - not a complete answer. Get busy and connect with the resources that will be helpful to you. Real, live people-resources are the best, and among all of the people-resources that you can have on your side, you are the best one of all. By the time you finish reading this manual, I hope that notion will be indelibly etched upon your mind. Each of the rest of us people-resources have our own ways of doing things - some of which may be helpful to you and some of which may not.