Panicking ***trigger sexual abuse***

[Smileymoon1]

I have recently reported historic sexual abuse from my childhood to the police. I have one more set of interviews to go.
Problem is that since my first interview I keep having panic attacks. Memories keep flashing up in my head and then my chest goes tight and I feel like I can’t breathe. Struggling to think of anything else even at (very busy) work. How can I help myself?

I don’t have any advice, I’m afraid. I’m sure others will, however. I just wanted to say well done - you are a brave woman. x

That’s so sweet. Thank you x

OP you are very brave, and it's no wonder this is bringing up historical trauma for you. Have you heard of grounding techniques? When you feel panicky, stop and focus on something you can feel, something you can hear, something you can see, something you can smell. You can also grip and release the arm of chair, edge of a desk or something while slowing your breathing down. These things all focus your mind away from whatever is causing that panicky feeling.
Do you have any Mental Health First Aiders at work? Or an employee assistance programme? It really might be worth discussing with them how you are feeling (you don't need to tell them why, and anything you do say is confidential unless they think you are at immediate risk of harm).

Have a read on here... www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/anxiety-and-panic-attacks/panic-attacks/

Hi Smiley, So proud of you. I have been in your position and reported in 2013.

Highly recommend some specific counselling. Break The Silence are, I think, a national charity and they support adults who have been through CSA.

Obviously depends how you feel about it, but I felt better the more I talked with trusted friends etc, like I wasn't keeping a secret and took me a while to not feel ashamed about it.

It was not our fault. Sending you love ❤️

You should be allocated a Independent Sexual Violence Advisor to support you.

From experience, this was invaluable. I didn't think that I would need it but actually when I opened up that box I really struggled.

Well done for speaking out x you are very brave.