Do you help with rape issues?

Hello and kudos to you for requesting some support, I’m empathetic to your situation. I would suggest you follow up with your local “Sexual Assault Crisis Center” to access specific survivor services.  As I’m unsure of what area you are in, you would need to complete a google search for what is open in your specific geographic area. I would try a key word search using “Local Sexual Assault Crisis” or “Local Sexual Assault Support”.

It is also my understanding that the national hotlines can connect you with local services, thus that may also be an option. The website is https://www.rainn.org/resources. It’s my belief that working with a counselor that specializes in this area would be extremely helpful to you. As when working with trained professionals with background knowledge you can usually receive more specific coping skills and information. There also may be an option to receive some peer based services if you find that helpful.

In the meantime, if your boyfriend knows I would ask for his patience. It would be my hope that he would be understanding and be willing to work with you at your pace.  If he knows and is unwilling to work with you I would suggest evaluating your relationship. Either way be patient with yourself, you are describing a traumatic event that will take some time to heal from. I again send my kudos for reaching out for help. This process will be best completed step by step with a trusted provider. If you select to stay in the relationship without your boyfriend not knowing this could create further challenges as you may have the need to garner his support in the future.

Although locating a provider with some expertise is best you may have the opportunity to find some relief with any assigned therapist. Having someone to assist you with methods such as guided imagery, breathing techniques and other aspects of a mindfulness approach could also help. You can also locate information on “Mindfulness” via a google search one good article can be found at https://www.verywellmind.com/using-mindfulness-for-ptsd-2797588. I hope this is helpful, good luck on your journey!