Survival and Recovery

Survivors always ask: is it possible to recover from their abuse? The answer is not that simple, as every survivor is unique.

It is certainly possible to recover from many effects of the abuse, come to terms with what has happened, realise that the abuse was not your fault, and achieve important goals in your life, career and relationships. However, survivors often find that some difficulties remain with them for the rest of their lives. Surviving in itself has testified to their strength and courage.

Childhood sexual abuse can lead to long-term effects, such as severe loss of self esteem, and distressing post-traumatic symptoms such as panic attacks or flashbacks. There are many different types of support that survivors have found helpful in dealing with these and other effects of their abuse.

Finding the type of help and support that is best for you is important, and we have included a glossary on this website which explains the various therapeutic approaches – such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Person-Centred Counselling, or the difference between counselling, psychotherapy, psychiatry and psychology.

We have also listed the many support agencies across Scotland who provide a range of services for survivors. These include one-to-one counselling, group support and advocacy. Many survivors find their own journey to recovery through books, though creative writing, art or drama.

Families, friends and partners also play a vital part in their recovery. Some survivors also find channelling negative feelings into constructive campaigning to improve awareness of the issue is an important factor in their recovery. Indeed survivors themselves play a pivotal role in the SurvviorScotland strategy.