Abortion recovery can be a very difficult and long journey, but you are not alone! Typically, women experience what we call “delayed” or “disenfranchised” grief, which often occurs because society does not recognize or legitimize this type of loss. If you have experienced the trauma of abortion, we encourage you to acknowledge the loss and give yourself permission to grieve, to express your emotions and even to question God.
Perhaps you are struggling with issues of anxiety, depression or a variety of self-destructive behaviors like eating disorders, substance abuse, etc. These types of concerns are often related to the abortion experience and describe what is now known as PAS (post-abortion syndrome). PAS can be healed through a focused and intentional journey that addresses the physical, emotional and spiritual elements of this type of trauma.
It is important to get a referral to someone with experience in post-abortion counseling. Starting Point is here to help. Contact our in-house counselor, Abbey J. Ernst, LISW for a free, private consultation at 740-393-0370 or ClientServices@knoxstartingpoint.com.
What is Post Abortion Syndrome?
The concept of PAS, Post Abortion Syndrome, covers a wide range of emotional trauma, grief and coping behaviors that are considered a subset of PTSD, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, when triggered by abortion. These emotional responses can begin shortly after the event or may not begin to emerge for years.
Women may experience abortion as a traumatic event for several reasons. Recent studies indicate that women who felt pressured to abort by others, or who had histories of sexual abuse prior to their abortion, frequently experienced greater post-abortive distress than those without.
What are the Symptoms of Post Abortion Syndrome?
Visit a website with specific resources for Abortion Loss and Recovery
Books that may be helpful to you on your journey to healing
