Child Abuse Story of Healing and Recovery From Christine

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Child Abuse Story of Healing and Recovery From Christine

by Christine
(California, USA)

My mother used to be a vibrant, charming, kind, and generous woman- though with many psychological demons she kept inside. In the last 15 years, she has disconnected from all friends and family in her life, and descended into mental illness. My oldest sister disconnected from her when she was 23, and after she left, my mom would tell people she had just met about how her oldest daughter was her worst nightmare and say things like "I wish I had dropped your sister in a vat of acid when she was two seconds old". I too, disconnected from my mom 8 months ago. Although the separation was extremely traumatic- I am proud to say that today I have made great progress in my own recovery.

I am stable in a meaningful job. I am blessed with loyal friends who have stuck by me through the decades of emotional abuse. My strategy for bringing myself to life again- was to share what was happening within a very close circle- a circle of those in whom I had great trust. I let myself lean on others when I could feel my knees buckling beneath me. For a few weeks after the trauma, I went to counseling or support group every night I could. I took a painting class, wrote down my feelings and emotions extensively- and waited for my feelings and my confidence, to return. Laughter took a few weeks to re-emerge. Feeling safe in my environment took a bit longer. Confidence in who I am and hope for my future took longer still. Its an ongoing process. I take out my anger on the treadmill as best I am able these days! Memories dont evaporate completely over time- but over time, who you are becoming simply becomes more important.

Darlene Barriere: author. speaker. survivor. coach

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Child Abuse Story of Healing and Recovery From Christine

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Apr 23, 2010

Christine:
by: Darlene Barriere - Webmaster

I understand the need to distance from a parent only too well. I too had to "separate" from my mother for my true healing to begin. I commend and applaud that you not only recognized what you had to do, but that you actually have made tremendous strides in moving forward in your life, and in a healthy way, with friends, exercise, and finding purpose in your life. Keep up the great work! Thank you for sharing your story with my visitors and me.

Darlene Barriere
Webmaster: www.child-abuse-effects.com
author. speaker. survivor. coach
From Victim to Victory, a memoir

Apr 23, 2010

music is a great outlet
by: Scott 1

I find making music to be a great outlet from things,... and even myself. Its really something when you have a blank piece of paper, all your instruments and an empty recording machine and so much to say. But I didnt want people to know about my abuse and problems so I didnt write about it. Though those who know me can hear what I'm saying even though I dont say it. And I love her deeply for it. Perhaps its because she is a survivor of child abuse too. She grew up in abusive foster care just miles from where I grew up and we went to school together. It took me 30 years to reconnect with her. Its good to share such things as art, hobbies and music with a special someone who understands. To communicate without speaking.
I Learned to play guitar first,then that makes the bass guitar much easier to learn. Learning piano, harmonica, I use a couple of drum machines. Learning to sing is quiet an experience and draws one from their shell. I agree Christine, its good to have a circle of understanding people you can trust, and hobbies.

Apr 26, 2010

Always believe in yourself: I will, I can, I must.
by: maurice

Christine your story is so inspirational, so empowering in your telling of what you did to be a winner over absue: You sure touched Darlene's heart and her comment to you I hope will empower you now to Live your life to the full with the golden nuggets of your life your trusted and loyal friends. You moved my heart as I read through your story: Nice to see you acknowledgeing Darlen's site. Full credit to her on all out behalf. She is totally aware she is a saving angel for us all who have becaome family as visitors to her site. Her guardianship of it makes it safe and re-assuring that it is a safe haven for each of us to be truly honest in relating our story and the effects abuse had on us as innoncent and vunerable children. You sure give Hope Christine to many. Good on you special gift to us all. Great part of your healing was you having a healthy mind in a healthy body I totally believe in that for all ages. Team sports, cultural groups and gatherings makes life worth living in the company of other like-minded people: We grow naturally in the safety of numbers and in compannonship, buddies and friendships of such people. Thank you Christine.

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Child Abuse Story of Healing and Recovery From Christine

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Child Abuse Story of Healing and Recovery From Christine